Why play matters more than we sometimes realise
As a Health Play Specialist, I have the privilege of supporting children and young people through some of the most challenging moments in their lives. Whether they are attending appointments, undergoing treatments, managing long-term health conditions, or facing uncertainty, one thing remains constant: play is a child's natural language.
Play is not simply about keeping children occupied. It is how they communicate their feelings, make sense of the world around them, build resilience, and develop confidence. When children are given opportunities to play, they are often better able to express emotions, reduce anxiety, and cope with difficult experiences.
Prioritising wellbeing can sometimes feel overwhelming for families. However, supporting a child's emotional wellbeing does not have to involve expensive resources or complicated strategies. Often, the simplest moments can have the greatest impact.
Practical wellbeing tips for families
Make time for child-led play
Child-led play occurs when children choose what they want to do and adults follow their lead rather than directing activities.
This type of play helps children:
- Feel valued and heard
- Develop independence
- Build self-confidence
- Strengthen family connections
Try setting aside just 15-20 minutes each day where your child is in control of the activity. Whether that involves building with blocks, drawing, role-playing, or creating stories, your presence and attention matter more than the activity itself.
Use play to explore emotions
Children often find it difficult to express complex feelings through words alone.
You can encourage emotional expression by:
- Using dolls, action figures, or soft toys to act out situations
- Reading stories and discussing characters feelings
- Creating 'emotion faces' through art activities
- Playing games that encourage sharing emotions
Sometimes a child may reveal worries through play that they are unable to verbalise directly.
Create predictable routines
Children thrive when they know what to expect.
Simple routines can:
- Reduce anxiety
- Improve sleep patterns
- Increase feelings of safety and security
Consider using visual schedules, picture timetables, or daily charts. This is particularly helpful for younger children or those who may benefit from additional structure.
Encourage physical activity
Movement plays an important role in both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Activities could include:
- Dancing in the living room
- Family walks
- Playing in the park
- Obstacle courses at home
- Ball games in the garden
Physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and support healthy development.
Talk about worries openly
Children notice more than we sometimes realise. When they are feeling worried, they often benefit from honest, age-appropriate conversations.
Helpful approaches include:
- Listening without rushing to fix the problem
- Acknowledging their feelings
- Offering reassurance
- Answering questions honestly
Remember, it is okay if you do not have all the answers. Children often find comfort simply in knowing that someone is listening.
Final thoughts
Every child deserves opportunities to play, explore, express themselves, and feel understood. As a Health Play Specialist, I see every day how powerful play can be in helping children navigate challenges, build resilience, and flourish emotionally.
For families, wellbeing does not need to be complicated. Small, intentional moments of connection, play and communication can make a lasting difference in a child's life.
By nurturing wellbeing through play, we help children develop the confidence, coping skills, and emotional strength they need not only today, but for the future as well.
Sarah Fawehinmi
Health Play Specialist