Diane Ackerman is attributed to saying “Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” And the sentiment is right. Research from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development supports the theory that it takes 400 repetitions to learn something new or create new synapses in the brain; when done through play, it takes 20 or as few as 10. Adults only have to look at their own enjoyment of books, movies, TV shows, and video games to see the power of creativity, imagination, metaphors, and pretend play on our emotions.
People have been observing and studying the benefits of play since ancient Greece. Over time, researchers and scientists who study children and their development began to explore the therapeutic nature of play, which ultimately led to the creation of play therapy, a therapeutic approach play therapists use with children, often between the ages of 5 and 12 years-old.
Play therapists aren’t the only ones who recognize the importance of play for children. Many states, including Florida, have laws that outline requirements around providing a certain amount of safe and unstructured play for children in elementary school. At a time when many caregivers and children report an overwhelming amount of anxiety and depression related to the pressure of some schools utilization of standardized testing, play becomes even more important.
Coral Springs offers numerous opportunities to allow your child to engage in spontaneous and unstructured play, as well as a bit more directive. And what’s more, studies have shown that just 5 minutes a day of playtime with your child can even improve their behavior.
Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
While this list is no means exhaustive of all the opportunities available to children and families in Coral Springs looking to incorporate a bit more play into their weekly routine, it might offer a starting point for how and where to get a little more playful.
My name is Hayley Kirchoff and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I work with children ages 4 – 12 years-old, teenagers, and adults to overcome feelings of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a history of trauma. I work from an Adlerian perspective and strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship. To my clients past, present, and future, thank you for trusting me with you and your child’s care. Thank you for allowing me to learn, grow, and be imperfect with you as we go on this journey together.
Learn more about Hayley: https://caringtherapistsofbroward.com/staff/hayley-kirchoff-lmhc/