Physical play is the type of play that gets your child moving from big movements like running and jumping to small movements like picking up a pencil or tying a knot. Kids burn more calories through active play than any other type of play, which can help keep them fit, and contribute to a huge range of health benefits.
- What are the characteristics of physical play?
- What are benefits of physical play?
- What activities promote physical play?
- How does physical play support a child's learning and development?
What are the characteristics of physical play?
Characteristics of play
- Active. During active play, children use their bodies and minds in play by interacting with the environment, materials and other people.
- Adventurous and risky. ...
- Communicative. ...
- Enjoyable. ...
- Involved. ...
- Meaningful. ...
- Sociable and interactive. ...
- Symbolic.
What are benefits of physical play?
Active play is critical for kids' physical development. It helps children hone their coordination, balance, gross-motor skills (large movements like crawling and walking) and fine-motor skills (smaller movements like picking objects up).
What activities promote physical play?
You can include running, jumping, balancing, throwing, catching and other fun actions like jump roping or hula hooping. Yoga helps strengthen muscles and develop coordination and balance. There are many books and DVDs available to help teach yoga to children.
How does physical play support a child's learning and development?
During play, children will learn to move, balance and lift things. This helps them develop the fundamental movement skills (PDF, 529kb, 1 page) that will help them stay active in later life. As children get older, physical play will also help them to stay healthy and active. It also strengthens their bones and muscles.