Play is described as the work of childhood so how can we encourage this natural exploration in our children?
As parents, we ignore the importance of play at our peril. Neuroscientists have discovered that part of the brain is hardwired for play. Creative activity stimulates the frontal lobes of the brain so it is vital that we allow time and space for our children to play.
Research with humans and other mammals demonstrates that play can lower stress hormones and help the child become more able to deal with stress when it comes her way. The desire to engage with the world, to play and explore is also known as a seeking system by child development experts. This seeking system empowers children to engage with people and places and to have new experiences.
