Author – Joe-Ann Watkins (She/Her) is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Registered Nurse. Joe-Ann specializes in helping couples navigate disconnection, rebuild trust after infidelity, and resolve deep-seated conflicts. She is currently completing her practicum placement at Cambrian Counselling and Wellness.
“We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves, or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing” (Schaefer, 1994)
The Power of Rest and Play for Kids
In today’s busy world, especially when transitioning from summer to the school year, we often overlook the importance of rest and play. But here’s the thing: rest isn’t just about taking naps or lying around—it’s about taking a moment to pause and just be. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute break to sit outside, a brief nap, or time to sit on the couch without screens or distractions, rest allows kids to recharge, both mentally and physically.
Now, let’s talk about play. Play is so much more than just having fun. It’s a vital tool that supports a child’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Unlike structured activities, play has no set goals or outcomes—it’s just for the joy of it! And that’s exactly why it’s so powerful. Play invites children to be fully present in the moment and experience joy, whether they’re engaging in a hobby, playing a game, or simply exploring their surroundings.
Rest: More Than Sleep
Rest doesn’t always have to mean sleep. Rest isn’t just about sleep or inactivity—it’s about pausing to recharge, mentally and physically. Sure, sleep is vital, but rest can also be about carving out moments to stop, reflect, and decompress. Neill et al. (2019) discovered that just five minutes spent outdoors, even sitting on a bench, can significantly enhance mood. Imagine a few peaceful minutes outdoors laying on a hammock, breathing in fresh air, or having a quick break indoors without checking phones or turning on the TV. These moments are essential for kids to recharge their minds and process everything in their world.
Play: The Ultimate Tool for Growth
When kids play, they do more than just have fun—they grow. Play builds their emotional resilience, fosters self-empathy, and helps them learn how to communicate better, and even strengthens their relationships with friends and family (Llull, 2021). For example, playing together as a family fosters connection and trust, which are vital for strong emotional bonds.
But play isn’t just for bonding—it also boosts creativity, imagination, and promotes problem-solving (Llull, 2021). Whether they’re building with blocks, running around outside, using their imagination, or making a sandcastle kids develop new skills and insights. Play is their way of making sense of the world and finding their place in it.
Personal Insights: How Play Has Benefited My Kids
As a parent, I see firsthand how outdoor play revitalizes my kids. Whether they’re chasing each other in the backyard, getting lost in their favourite creative projects, or taking a dip in the pool, these moments of play help them unwind and find balance. My oldest, for example, benefits greatly from playing outside—it helps him wind down, improves his sleep, and makes him more focused in school. This is just one example of how play is essential for their mental and emotional well-being.
Seeing this impact on my children has reinforced how essential it is to encourage play as part of their daily routine. Not only does it give them joy, but it also supports their overall well-being and strengthens our family bonds.
Nature-Based Play: A Restorative Power
There’s something magical about play in nature. Nature itself offers a powerful backdrop that encourages exploration, curiosity, confidence, cheerfulness, and healing (Berman et al., 2008, Capaldi et al., 2014). Nature-based play fosters not only creativity and curiosity but also promotes mental health. Research shows that nature can be grounding and calming, reducing anxiety and increasing attention span—skills that are invaluable in both the classroom and life.
Additionally, time spent in nature increases attention span, creativity, and overall well-being (Berman et al., 2008; Courtney, 2017). Plus, it has a grounding effect, helping kids feel calmer and more connected to the world around them (Saieg, 2024). A child’s bond with nature fosters their overall well-being and nurtures a sense of responsibility and care for the environment (Salazar et al., 2020).
Nature-based play doesn’t have to be elaborate. It can be as simple as a walk in the park, climbing trees, rolling down a hill, or finding a spot to sit. Sit spots offer a peaceful space where kids can escape distractions, slow down, and tune into their surroundings (Shirra, 2022). These quiet moments not only teach kids about the natural world but also help them develop keen observational skills, focusing on each sense individually. Whether rain or shine, sit spots provide a calming, restful activity that encourages kids to connect with nature at their own pace, fostering a deeper appreciation for the changing patterns and seasons around them.
Why It Matters
Rest and play are more than just fun or downtime—they are essential for a child’s development. They help kids clear their heads, process emotions, and build stronger relationships. Whether it’s taking a break or engaging in playful activities, these moments are vital for kids to grow and thrive in today’s busy world. And let’s be honest: we all need a little more rest and play in our lives too!