Unstructured play has a pivotal role in helping children develop their imagination. It encourages the brain to think differently and can help children in various aspects of their development – cognitive development, physical development as well as their social and emotional development. As the name suggests, unstructured play has no structure or set guidelines. It gives children the freedom and flexibility to spend their free time how they want. So as opposed to sitting them in front of toys, children are given the option. They may even look past their toy collection entirely and stack everyday household items to create their own tower. You can learn more about the importance of unstructured play for children in this post.
Creativity
As mentioned above, there is no set way for children to play. Play materials are open ended to give children flexibility and a great example of this is Lego. They can be assembled and re-arranged however they like. This encourages children to form their own ideas and develop creative thinking skills.
Problem Solving Skills
Also, as they do, they will likely encounter new and different problems of their own which they will need to think of solutions for.
Team Working Skills
Another fun fact about unstructured play is that it can help children to develop their social skills. It promotes teamworking and they will need to communicate with others.
Resilience
Unstructured play involves experimenting as your child will explore and put their own ideas to the test. In doing so they will likely experience challenges and things may not go as they planned. They will need to try again after their failed attempts, and this will help to build their resilience.
Screentime
Unstructured play helps to curb screentime. With their devices out of the way, they can explore the real world and develop a greater understanding of it as opposed to sitting idly in front of a tablet or the TV.
*Collaborative post
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