Hi Everyone!!
I hope you are all staying warm and enjoying the snow!
Today, we would like to discuss the importance of play!
As school occupational therapist, we promote learning through play. We work on many academic tasks such as writing and cutting. We also work on life skills such as organization and self-feeding as well as promote independence. As OTs, we work on these skills through play. A student’s “occupation” to play is important for the developmental aspects necessary to successfully participate in the school environment. Play promotes development in coordination, emotional maturity, social skills, and self-confidence to try new experiences and explore new environments.
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), provides multiple resources to help parents learn more about the importance of play as well as how parents and OTs can work together to benefit the child. Below are AOTA’s tip sheets for parents to read over.
Building Play Skills Tip Sheet
Please feel free to leave comments with your questions!
Have a great day!