The Importance of Play in promoting healthy child development
by Kenneth R. Ginsburg, MD, MSEd 

Article Summary
Play is a cherished part of childhood that offers children important developmental benefits and parents the opportunity to fully engage with their children. It is essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. However, multiple forces are interacting to effectively reduce many children’s ability to reap the benefits of play. As we strive to create the optimal developmental milieu for children, it remains imperative that play be included along with academic and social-enrichment opportunities and that safe environments be made available to all children. 

Quote:
 "Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. Play allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practicing adult roles, sometimes in conjunction with other children or adult caregivers."
- Dr Kenneth Ginsburg

Read full article at:
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/119/1/182