Benefits of Structured Play
Darrell Morris

An often asked question posed by parents is which is more important – structured or free form play? It should come as no surprise that the answer is both. Structured and free form play are equally significant in the development of a child. Each has their purpose. Each has their benefits. It is through play that children learn about the world and experience life.

For our discussion today, we will focus on the advantages of structured play. Coming out in strong support of structured play are the researchers at Yale University. One of their recent studies found that “children who take part in organized activities benefit developmentally. They are healthier, judging from their academic performance and indicators of psychological and emotional wellbeing and self-esteem, as well as from their use of cigarettes, alcohol and drugs, and their parent-child relationships...”

This doesn’t suggest that you should run out immediately and register your kids for every soccer, dance, gymnastics or baseball activity you can find in order to occupy each spare moment of their free time. Yes, it strongly advocates structured, organized play, but it also goes on to talk about the importance of balancing structured play with free play. The two should compliment each other. One should not replace or eliminate the other.

Structured play offers several benefits including:

• Introducing your child to new ideas and opportunities
• Enhancing their development and learning abilities
• Supporting healthy brain development
• Increasing physical and social skills
• Providing experience in cooperation,
   self-discipline and perseverance
• Developing a positive self-image
• Building team skills

When selecting a structured activity for your child, the first and obvious consideration is your child’s interest and desire in a particular activity. Also look for an activity or program that encourages participation for everyone and stresses age-appropriate skill development rather than competition and winning. Your child’s cognitive and physical development level is another factor to consider. Avoid putting your child in an activity that is currently beyond their abilities. Doing so, could lead to your child experiencing feelings of frustration and failure. Finally, be sure that the activity is safe and provides adequate adult supervision. By selecting an activity that meets all these criteria, you help ensure your child will have a fun and positive experience.

Most forms of play such as free form and structured include elements of physical activity which is pivotal for the optimal health, growth and development of your child. The importance of physical activity beginning in childhood is even more important in today’s world as we find ourselves combating increasing numbers in childhood obesity, diabetes, hypertension, asthma and more. By instilling a lasting love of physical activity in our children at an early age, we hopefully place them on a path to a longer and healthier life.