Creativity and Play

Have you stopped playing, are you playing without knowing it, or do you make sure to include play in your schedule? As children, play and creativity are natural parts of our daily lives at school, at home and in the community. As adults, we tend to have fewer opportunities for play and creativity during our workday and when we are home, we can become bogged down with functional vs. fun tasks. Next time you are reviewing your schedule, try to include time for play and creativity. This is important considering the benefits. As children, and as adults play and creativity helps us build our communication skills,  our relationships and it helps us release stored excess excited or upset energy as well as helping us process our emotions.

Creativity and play come in different forms, some options suit children, others suit adults, while others suit children and adults. A few examples may help you recognize what you are already doing, or help you add play and creativity to your schedule: colouring, painting, working with clay, writing, woodworking, playing games, singing, playing an instrument and participating in sports. If you try one that is not for you, try again until you find what suits you. Enjoy!