Supporting children's wellbeing through play

Playing is the most natural and enjoyable way for children keep well and be happy. It can contribute to improved wellbeing for everyone during times of uncertainty. Playing is something that children do whenever they have the chance. It is their way of supporting their own health and wellbeing.

The onset of the coronavirus means we are having to deal with uncertainties and unknowns very quickly and with little preparation. Being at home for long periods of time and not being able to see friends and visit familiar places is confusing. Despite the current pandemic, children will still need and want to play. Playing helps children manage their emotions and make sense of their situation.  During times of uncertainty it:

• helps to give children a feeling of normality and joy during an experience of loss, isolation and trauma
• helps children to overcome emotional pain and regain control over their lives
• helps them make meaning of what has happened to them, and enable them to experience fun and enjoyment
• offers children an opportunity to explore their own creativity.

Even if children may sometimes seem distressed, play is the healthy way for children to come to terms with news and it provides parents and carers with an insight as to how they are feeling.

To help parents to support play during times of stress we have pulled together a list of top tips.

Time

• If children are absorbed in play, it is okay to leave them to it. Try to resist the urge to start a specific activity or stepping in to help, unless you are asked to.
• Having time to watch children play can help you find out a bit about what they enjoy doing and give you a clue to how they may feel about the situation they are in.
• Try not to worry if children say they are bored, that’s okay. Many childen have become used to their time being filled and the experience of boredom is unusual. But it’s a natural and important experience that we often see before a period of creativity.
• Make the most of your time outside by valuing play. As much as they will enjoy long walks and cycling, children get most of their physical activity from playing. Scooting, exploring, jumping and climbing on walls can still happen within the official physical distance guidance – children will need some gentle guidance with this.

Space

• There are lots of things around the house that encourage imagination and creativity. Allow children to play with things like cardboard boxes, old sheets, pots and pans.
• Make a place to play – using items such as a cardboard box, sheets to build a small den or cushions – that allows children to be quiet and calm. This is a normal way to for them to come to terms with what is happening. 
• Try to allow for noisier and even destructive play. Children might want to play fight with their siblings, destroy something they have created, or hit things to make a noise. Acting like this helps them to vent frustration and understand what is happening.
   

Permission

• Remember that older children still need room and space to play too. They may be boisterous or might enjoy doing things they did when they were younger. This can give them a sense of security.
• Try to let children decide how and what they are playing. Some things may be hard or upsetting to watch, but fantasy play helps children to make sense of and work through difficult and distressing issues.
• Try not to stress too much if your children are playing alone. When playing alone, children begin to recognise their own emotions, feelings, and thoughts, as well as how to control them. They are also learning to feel comfortable with being by themselves and learn ways to manage their boredom on their own.
• Through playing children experience a range of emotions including frustration, determination, achievement, disappointment and confidence, and through practice, can learn how to manage these feelings.
• Focus on play ideas without rules or that don’t need a specific skill. These are fun for family members of all ages and will help pass the time in a playful way. For ideas, take a look at our indoor play section.