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Posted: January 2nd, 2024
The improvement of cognitive qualities through play.
Play is essential for the healthy development of children both physically and cognitively. Through play, children learn important life skills, develop social abilities, and enhance executive functions like memory, problem-solving, and creativity (National Institute for Play, 2022). While play is often seen as merely fun and games, research shows it serves important cognitive functions at all stages of life. This paper will explore how play improves cognitive qualities in children and adults.
Play and Cognitive Development in Children
Play enhances executive functions that control cognitive processing and behavior in children (Weisberg et al., 2013). During play, children practice cognitive flexibility by switching between tasks and considering alternative solutions to problems. This ability to adapt thinking is important for learning (Cordova & Lepper, 1996). Play also improves working memory, which is the ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information in mind (Barnett, 1990). When playing games with rules, children must remember instructions while participating.
Play further aids the development of inhibitory control in children. This executive function allows children to focus attention and ignore distractions (Diamond & Lee, 2011). During cooperative play, children learn to inhibit impulses and take turns. Strong inhibitory control predicts better self-regulation and school readiness (Blair & Razza, 2007). Outdoor play in particular correlates with enhanced memory function in children likely due to exposure to enriching environments (McCurdy et al., 2010).
Play also supports social-emotional development which impacts cognition. Through social pretend play, children practice perspective taking and understanding other’s emotions which builds social skills and self-awareness (Lillard et al., 2013). Children who play cooperatively learn to negotiate, compromise, and resolve conflicts – skills linked to better mental health, self-esteem and relationships (Pellegrini & Smith, 1998). Since play relieves stress, it protects against wear and tear on the brain and body from high stress levels (McEwen & Gianaros, 2010).
Play and Adult Cognitive Health
While play is often seen as a child’s activity, research shows it remains important for cognitive functioning in adulthood. Continued play promotes neuroplasticity or the brain’s ability to form new connections throughout life (Brown, 2009). In older adults, mentally stimulating leisure activities are associated with reduced risk of cognitive decline (Verghese et al., 2003). Games, puzzles, and other cognitively challenging hobbies likely slow age-related changes due to continued use of cognitive processes (Hertzog et al., 2009).
Play also benefits cognition indirectly by reducing stress. High stress harms the prefrontal cortex involved in executive functions and the hippocampus important for memory through elevated cortisol levels (Lupien et al., 2009; McEwen & Gianaros, 2010). Play provides a break from serious responsibilities and allows the body to recover from stress (Russ, 2013). In one study, adults who engaged in more frequent leisure activities displayed less age-related decline in spatial memory and learning tests compared to less active peers (Seeman et al., 2010).
Additionally, play encourages creativity through divergent thinking without obvious solutions (Russ, 2013). Creative problem-solving relies on cognitive flexibility, broad associations, and original ideas (Nusbaum & Silvia, 2011). Occupations that value innovation and entrepreneurship understand the link between play, creativity and cognitive skills needed for complex problem-solving (Brown, 2009). Playful brainstorming sessions help relax inhibitions and access more remote associations compared to serious work modes (Russ, 2013).
Conclusion
In summary, play serves important cognitive functions at all stages of life. It enhances executive functions, memory, problem-solving skills and creativity in children through pretend play. Play supports social development and relieves stress in children. For adults, playful leisure activities correlate with reduced cognitive decline likely due to continued brain plasticity and stress relief. Incorporating more playful elements into daily routines through games, puzzles and creative hobbies can help improve and maintain cognitive health across the lifespan. While often seen merely as fun, play should be recognized for its cognitive benefits.
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