Play and Health

There is increasing concern about the mental and physical health of children and young people.  At the same time there is growing evidence from among health professionals and researchers that play makes a significant contribution to the fitness and well-being of children. 

Research suggests that given the opportunity, children get wide-ranging exercise as well as significant mental health benefits from freely chosen play.  For example:

-  climbing develops strength, co-ordination, balance and risk-taking ability, as well as confidence and self-esteem;

-  running and chasing games develop fitness, stamina and agility;

-  jumping and running develop bone density;

-  fantasy play can be a way of children making sense of difficult or distressing aspects of their life;

-  play can be fun and relaxing, a way of relieving or having time away from anxiety and stress.  When playing children and young people do not have to conform to adult agendas.

Children play instinctively whenever they are given the chance, but not all children choose to, or are able to, participate in sports activities. Given the opportunity, the time, and a stimulating and challenging play environment, most children and young people will  engage in beneficial physical activity.

View our 'Children's Play - Health and Well-being' fact sheet

Further references to download:

Making Children's Lives More Active (2004) University College London

Play Deprivation Briefing Sheet (2003) Bob Hughes for Play Wales

Get Kids on the Go! (2005) British Heart Foundation

Preventing Childhood Obesity (2005) British Medical Association

The health benefits of play and physical activity for disabled children and young people (2010) KIDS - working with disabled children, young people and their families

Find out more about Physical Activity Network Wales