Active Play and Healthy Development presents the findings of more than 75 studies that examine the effects and functions of physically active play, for young and old. Here, with the help of Professor Jeffrey Goldstein, we look at some of the research highlights that demonstrate the importance of active play in promoting health and well-being in all of us. Click on any of the topics on the left to find out about the many benefits play offers your child.
 [1] References can be found in the complete report

Playful children are happier, better adjusted, more co-operative, and more popular with their peers than those who play less.  ‘Children play longer when a wide variety of toys are available.  Playful children are more physically active, creative, humorous, imaginative, emotionally expressive, curious and communicative'. 
-- Jerome Singer.  ‘Imaginative play and adaptive development'.[1]   

WHY ACTIVE PLAY IS IMPORTANT
All types of play, from fantasy play to rough-and-tumble, have a crucial role in children's development.  Play is the primary activity that promotes the skills that will be needed throughout life.  If deprived of play, children will suffer both in the present and in the long-term.  With adequate play, children stand the best chance of becoming healthy, happy, productive members of society.  Children who do not play, or who do not play as often as other children, are at increased risk of psychological, intellectual and social deficits. 

Encouraging active play and participation in sports is vital for our children. Why?  Because there are fewer opportunities for active play than in the past - fewer urban play spaces, less school time devoted to play and sport and fewer playmates at home to play with. This contributes to the sedentary lifestyle of young people and the problems, such as obesity, that may accompany it.

[1] References can be found in the complete report