Recreation time, or time away from school and other scheduled events, is important in the growth and well-being of children. Having ample free time is as necessary to them as following a structure in developing into well-rounded persons in the future. Giving children free time on outdoor playgrounds gives them physical fitness and stress relief through exercise, letting them experience social interaction with their peers, and promotes the use of their imagination, essential in honing their problem-solving skills.
Children are provided the opportunity to connect physically and emotionally with others when they play in the playground. When they play together on outdoor playsets, slides, or monkey bars, children have an opportunity to learn basic traits like sharing, taking turns, and other socially acceptable behavior. They are exposed to different people and the playground becomes a classroom for social ethics and human behavior. They begin to understand and comprehend how to relate to their playmates with civility, and how to treat others with respect and dignity beyond their differences. They are given the chance to know their abilities as well as limitations physically and emotionally, and get to do what they want under a social environment. The free time given these children also gives them the chance to see and accept each other’s weaknesses and strengths.
Play time affords children the chance to use their imagination, vital to honing their problem-solving skills. They can think of wild adventure treks while simply climbing rope ladders, or skydiving feats while dropping down a slide. Putting their imagination through healthy use helps them think independently and maturely, and come up with out-of-the-box approaches to difficult situations. They can even look at life as an exciting adventure.
Having their time in the playground also releases stress and excess energy, while away from their stressful time in school. Remember that human nature needs a third of the time each, for work, for rest, and for recreation. The running, climbing, swinging and jumping on outdoor play equipment is very good for the children emotionally and physically. Taking time off from the routine of life is important to keep children balanced. It gives children a respite and a chance to restore themselves back to structured living. A playground is not only a place to play, but also a venue to interact and grow.
