A survey conducted by the British Psychological Society revealed that over three-quarters of parents of primary school-aged children believe that playtime is just as important for their children as the academic work they've missed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. About 96 percent of parents said that playtime is important for their children, and among those surveyed, 69 percent expressed concern about the pandemic's impact on their children's opportunities for unstructured play. When it comes to social development, 61% of respondents said that social development is the most important aspect for their children.
Here are several indicators that your child needs more playtime, according to The Sun newspaper:
**Clinging to Parents**
With children spending more time at home due to the pandemic, many have become more attached to their parents. This likely means that children have developed a stronger bond with their parents and therefore do not spend much time alone. Experts say that play is important for children because it helps them become independent. It's also important for parents to play with their children, as this offers valuable experiences for developing the child's personality and physical health.
**Increased Emotional Sensitivity**
If your child is experiencing more emotional disturbances than usual, it may be due to a lack of playtime. Playtime allows children to experience a range of emotions, including frustration, determination, achievement, disappointment, and confidence. Through practice, they can learn to manage these feelings.
**Shyness Around Other Children**
If your child tends to shy away from other children or has difficulty playing with them, this may be due to inadequate playtime. Play encourages children to interact with others and learn how to build relationships, providing them with space to navigate different personalities.
**Difficulty Solving Problems**
Play is excellent for helping children solve problems on their own. If you've ever watched children play, with or without toys, you may have marveled at their ability to tackle challenges after a short period. Through play, children learn to think creatively, navigate difficulties, and find solutions without fear of making mistakes.
**Lethargy**
If your child is reluctant to run around the living room and make a mess, they may be experiencing an issue. While this may seem advantageous for you to get some quiet time, it's an indicator that the child may not be sufficiently stimulated through playtime.
