Play Promotes Physical Fitness and Healthy Bodies

Whether they realize it or not, children’s bodies are wired to be active.

Children have a very strong need for physical play, which is any type of play that gets them moving. It's part of how they learn to use their bodies and strengthens connections in the brain. Regular, active play has positive and far-reaching health effects throughout a child’s life. 

No matter a child’s abilities, interests and opportunities, physical play helps children:

• sharpen reflexes;
• work on movement control;
• improve gross motor skills;
• develop greater balance;
• build strong muscles;
• improve bone density;
• increase cardiovascular function;
• all while having fun!

After trauma or disaster, we may think that children should spend more time grieving.  But if they have a desire for physical play, encourage it. It is an important part of recovery and healing.