The annual #Playday campaign is dedicated to showcasing why play is essential for children's enjoyment of childhood and vital for their health, well-being, and development.

The Importance of Play

Play is a vital part of children's development, beginning in the Early Years and extending throughout their lives. It fosters communication, language, physical development, imagination, creativity, social skills, and confidence. Play allows children to solve problems, learn about the world around them, and develop independence through exploration.

Research highlights the significant impact of play on mental health. Children who lack play opportunities are more prone to anxiety, depression, and difficulties in forming relationships. Cognitive abilities can also be hindered, making it challenging for children to understand and adapt to new situations. Furthermore, play deprivation is linked to a higher risk of addiction and poor self-control in later life.

Play can happen in groups of children or children playing alone, in groups children communicate socially and build relationships, often acting out experiences and making sense of things they have seen. A child playing alone gives opportunities to improve concentration, encourages exploration, develops resilience and the ability to entertain themselves without the need for peer or adult interaction at all times.

Supporting Healthy Development

The Healthy Movers programme, commissioned by Public Health Dorset in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust, aims to enhance the physical literacy, development, and well-being of two to five-year-olds. Our Early Years Officer, Laura, explains the crucial role of play:

"Play should be organic and child-led but can also be supported by adults or older children. Playing with your child strengthens relationship bonds, provides insights into their interests and development, and offers opportunities to develop skills and imagination while having fun. There's no right or wrong way to play—embracing silliness and getting on the child's level only adds to the fun!"

Now in its second year, the Healthy Movers project has reached over 86 settings. This programme has been instrumental in boosting children's physical, emotional, and social development, laying a strong foundation for improved language, communication, and literacy skills.

For more information about the Healthy Movers programme, visit our Healthy Movers website.