{"id":7508,"date":"2011-10-31T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2011-10-31T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/the-importance-of-play\/"},"modified":"2011-10-31T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2011-10-31T00:00:00","slug":"the-importance-of-play","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/es\/the-importance-of-play\/","title":{"rendered":"The Importance of Play"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Autumn brings so many welcome changes — it is the season of nature’s beautiful color show, aromas and tastes of pumpkin and apple are abundant, cooler air sets in and the promise of new learning and fresh starts are brought by the school year. With this fresh, new season upon us and the humidity and rain of the summer behind us, autumn is a fantastic time to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather. And what better way to enjoy this beautiful time of year than to embrace activities you love and simply play.<\/p>\n

In the hustle and bustle of the school year and everyday live, it is common that we get stuck in what needs<\/em> to get done for school, work and family responsibilities, and often leave \u00abplay\u00bb off that long, daunting \u00abto do\u00bb list. But experts agree that play is incredibly important for our well-being. The Association for Childhood Education International states that play is \u201cdynamic, active, and constructive behavior [that] is an integral part of all children\u2019s healthy growth, development and learning across all ages, domains and cultures.\u201d<\/p>\n

Other benefits of physical activity include a reduced risk for many diseases, strengthened bones and muscles, a longer lifespan and increased mental health and mood according to the CDC<\/a>. In fact, when activities are exploratory and based on pure enjoyment, there are even more advantages. Play enhances empathy, flexibility, self-awareness and self-regulation. Playing has the potential to minimize anxiety, depression, aggression and sleep problems.<\/p>\n

With today’s busy, over-programmed schedules for both parents and children, it can be difficult finding time to add anything extra to your schedule. But our well-being and our children’s development depends on enjoying time to be active and play. See the list below for ideas for play that families can enjoy together. This season, try some games and activities with your family and fall into play<\/em>!<\/p>\n

Five Fun Family Play Activities for Fall <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n