Posted on Mon, Oct. 09, 2006

Children need more playtime, pediatricians say
Amid all the get-smart videos and classes, a new call for youngsters to "do their own thing."

By Lindsey Tanner
Associated Press

CHICAGO - What children really need for healthy development is more good, old-fashioned playtime, the American Academy of Pediatrics says in a new report.

Many parents load their children's schedules with get-smart videos, enrichment activities and lots of classes in a drive to help them excel. The efforts often begin as early as infancy.

Spontaneous, free play - whether it's chasing butterflies, playing with "true toys" such as blocks and dolls, or just romping on the floor with Mom and Dad - often is sacrificed in the shuffle, the report says.

Jennifer Gervasio has a 5-year-old son and a 3-year-old daughter involved in preschool three mornings weekly, plus T-ball and ballet for each one day a week. That's a light schedule compared with her children's friends', and Gervasio said her son in particular has trouble finding buddies who are free to come over and just play.
"There's just such a huge variety of things you can do for your kids if you have the resources, you almost feel why not," said Gervasio, of Wilmette, Ill. "There is a part of me that would worry if I don't sign my son up for some of these things, will he not be on par with the other kids."

For now, she says, she resists the pressure, instead allowing her children plenty of time for looking for bugs, romping at the beach and engaging in other play activities.

"I truly believe that they're better off when they can just do their own thing," Gervasio said.

Numerous studies have shown that unstructured play has many benefits. It can help children become creative, discover their own passions, develop problem-solving skills, relate to others and adjust to school settings, the academy report says.

"Perhaps above all, play is a simple joy that is a cherished part of childhood," says the report, prepared by two academy committees for release today at the group's annual meeting in Atlanta.

A lack of spontaneous playtime can create stress for children and parents alike. If it occurs because young children are plopped in front of get-smart videos or older children lose school recess time, it can increase risks for obesity. It may even contribute to depression for many children, the report says.

It says enrichment tools and organized activities can be beneficial but should not be viewed as a requirement for rearing successful children. Above all, they must be balanced with plenty of free play time, the report says.

Tips on Child's Play

Here are some recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics:

Free play should be promoted as a healthy and essential part of childhood.

Overuse of "passive entertainment," including television and computer games, should be avoided.

"True toys," including dolls and blocks, should be emphasized to allow children to use their imaginations fully.

Pediatricians should help parents evaluate claims by marketers about products or programs designed to produce "superchildren."

Spending time together talking and listening rather than loading up children with extracurricular activities can help parents serve as role models and prepare children for success.
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SOURCE: Associated Press

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