Play & Learn L.A., Scott McVarish President

What does Mr. Rogers say about play?

Download the_power_of_play.pdf

 Submitted by: Scott McVarish

Pediatricians Urge Free Play

Play & Learn L.A.’s “Play Center" will provide a safe and educational environment for children and their families and caretakers to play and learn together.

 A recent report from the American Academy of Pediatrics found that today’s children could be considered the most inactive generation in history. This is especially true in low-income communities. There are four primary reasons for this. First, the number of accessible and safe play spaces is decreasing. Second, under pressure to deliver certain academic assessments, schools are cutting down on the frequency and time kids spend in recess and have reduced time for creative arts and physical education. Third, kids are spending more and more time in front of the television or computer. Fourth, “structured” activities such as organized sports are replacing free, “unstructured” play.

 The Academy’s Report goes on to explain how “Play” is a crucial factor in the overall well-being of children. Play affects the level of quality of life children will enjoy. It is also essential for the cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being of children. The Academy’s Report, along with other studies, has found that there is a stark difference between children who play and children who don't.

Kids who play are healthier. Kids who play are less likely to be obese and develop obesity-related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.

Kids who play do better in school. Kids who play develop the cognitive skills that are positively linked to learning and academic performance.

Kids who play, play well as adults. Kids who play build their confidence and learn the social skills that help them become happy, well-adjusted adults

 

If we want a world full of healthy, happy and successful adults, we need to be sure we create a world where kids can play.

Source: "The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds" A Clinical Report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Kenneth R. Ginsberg MD, MS Ed., and the Committee on Communications and

 

 The type of play that Play & Learn L.A. can feature in our Play Center will:

 · Allow children to develop imagination and physical, mental, and emotional strength

      · Help children conquer fears, practice adult roles, and develop confidence

      · Allow children to learn to work with others, share, and self-advocate

      · Build active, healthy bodies

 Submitted by: Scott McVarish