Play has benefits for people of all ages. It gives parents a way to connect with their children and each other. It gives active older adults a way to strengthen their bodies. It gives everyone the chance to improve their health and, therefore, their quality of life. And best of all, play provides an opportunity for people of all ages to interact, spend time together and learn from each other. Find out what the experts have to say about play across the generations.
Strengthening Parent-Child Relationships through Play, Family Enhancement & Play Therapy Center
Parents are always looking for new ways to communicate with their kids and gain a better understanding of what’s important in their children’s lives. Play therapy gives parents a way to connect with their children, solve problems and strengthen their families. By using play to help children face their feelings and fears, parents can begin to build confidence and emotional strength within their children, their families and themselves.
Healthy Aging: Preventing Disease and Improving Quality of Life Among Older Americans, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Research shows that physical activity—along with good nutrition and no smoking—can delay disability for as much as ten years. Older adults who make play a part of their routine can increase their opportunities for independence, mobility and health. For our parents, grandparents, friends, loved ones and ourselves, making play a part of our lives will allow us to experience the joys of healthy aging.
The President’s Challenge, The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
The President’s Challenge is a program that encourages all Americans to make physical activity a part of their daily lives. Think of families riding bikes together, kids taking walks with their grandparents and parents playing with toddlers in the park: togetherness and fitness can go hand in hand. The goal is for adults to stay active for 30 minutes each day (60 minutes for kids). The President’s Challenge provides suggestions for each age group, as well as a master list of recommended activities, from rock climbing to water aerobics.