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The Impact of Free Play on Kids' Physical and Emotional Health

Nov 28, 2024 at 12:03 PM

The ability for kids to adapt and have fun is often overshadowed by our structured approach. As Jeff Francoeur, a former major league outfielder and now a youth sports podcaster, points out, we mess it up a lot of the time. Kids don't play pickup games in the backyard anymore; instead, they're often rushed through practices. But during Thanksgiving, we remember the importance of free play. Francoeur suggests that parents and coaches emphasize free play more often, even in formal practices.

Rediscover the Joy of Free Play for Kids and Adults

Start a Holiday Tradition

Organizing a game can bring people together. The "Turkey Bowl" in our neighborhood park has been an annual tradition for 22 years. We play parents vs. kids, and it's not about winning; it's about having fun and creating a tradition. Exercise is beneficial for the brain, as Harvard psychiatrist John Ratey wrote in "Spark." It's especially enjoyable when done with friends. Encourage free play on holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. A morning game can make you feel less sluggish later in the day and become a topic of conversation during dinner.

Keep Them Moving in the Classroom

In elementary school, children spend a lot of time sitting still. Alissa Casey, a teacher who works with third through fifth graders, says most kids get only a half hour of recess and one 50-minute PE class per week. This isn't enough. Teachers can ask for physical activity breaks in the classroom. Jordan Carlson, a professor of pediatrics, says short physical activity bursts help with on-task behavior and improve learning. Try activities like marching in place or moving to music.

Make Devices a Part of Active Free Play

The physical activity report card shows that too much screen time is a problem. Amanda Staiano says kids should limit screen time to no more than 2 hours per day. High amounts of sedentary behavior increase health risks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends creating a Family Media Plan. Encourage family members to charge tablets in the living room and put phones away during meals. But also show kids that devices can be used for active games.

Allow Them to Dream

Dreaming keeps kids playing sports. Francoeur spoke to Yankees manager Aaron Boone about his ALCS-winning home run. As a kid, Boone dreamed of doing that. When we were young, we dreamed of playing in the yard. Even on cold or rainy days, we could dream of doing other activities. The AAP recommends kids take a day of rest and a few months off from specific sports. Fill their free time with dreams and free play. Our neighborhood "Turkey Bowl" has evolved over the years, and our kids are getting closer to beating us. They can dream of that day.Steve Borelli, aka Coach Steve, has been with USA TODAY since 1999 and has coached his sons' teams. His column is posted weekly. For questions, email him at sborelli@usatoday.com.