From The Genius of Play, an initiative by the Toy Industry Association, here are 7 ways that playtime can benefit your child.

  1. Children with access to a variety of toys were found to reach higher levels of intellectual achievement, regardless of the children’s sex, race or social class.
  2. In one study, children aged 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 who played with building bricks had significantly higher language scores six months later, compared with a control group.
  3. Play enhances the progress of early development from 33% to 67% by improving language and reducing social and emotional problems.
  4. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children spend at least 60 minutes daily of open-ended play.
  5. Studies have proven that the brain is like a muscle. Students at an Oakland, Calif. school experienced a boost in brain speed of 27-32% after 8 weeks of structured game play.
  6. 95% of parents agree that time spent playing with your child enhances your relationship with that child.
  7. Parents say the purpose of play shifts as a child ages.
Source: http://www.thegeniusofplay.org/TGOP/Benefits_of_Play/Play_Facts/Facts_Benefits.aspx