Play and Learning

We recently came across this article that chronicles the benefits of play for children.  While many of us think of playtime for children as a reward or a way to direct extra energy, the benefits of play are much deeper.  In fact, according to Christine Gestal, Director of The Boulder Institute of Play Therapy, playtime is “the most important piece of a child’s mental, physical, social and emotional health.”  

While structured and unstructured play are both important for a child’s development, Gestal believes unstructured play is the most important.  Unstructured play is where children learn “who am I in the world, what’s important to me, and what do I like and want?”  Unstructured play helps children develop creativity, self-control, and cooperation skills, free play (where the child is in control) allows children to explore the world and reap numerous intangible benefits.  Gestal explains, “some of the biggest questions we ask as human beings are first explored by kids at playtime.”  

At HeroMe Lab, we put kids in control of playtime.  We don’t sell “stock” action figures that come with pre-packaged story lines.  Instead, the child creates every aspect of his or her HeroMe’s adventures.  From choosing the look and powers of the HeroMe to developing the HeroMe’s personality and stories, the child has the opportunity to explore, create, play, and even learn when he or she plays with HeroMe. 

Do Good, 

Dr. Socs

While we can’t claim to be doctors, child psychologists, or developmental specialists, we can look to experts like the ones featured here to provide insights into the world of children.  At HeroMe, we rely on resources like this as we create toys and experiences that ultimately fulfill our mission: “to inspire creativity and do good.”

 

Original source for information in this article: here