In industrial countries, playing is seen as the work of children.

In industrial countries, children are allowed and encouraged to play. Play is seen as a vital part of their lives for their development and for becoming responsible adults. But as they reach the age of being an adult, they and we might laugh aloud when seeing playgrounds (in Finnish, leikkialue)

“The opposite of play is not work. It’s depression.” – Brian Sutton-Smith

The question “what are the benefits of play?” is actually a very typical example of how adults think. The world of adults is all about performance, scoring, and setting targets. Play can offer an alternative where adults can express themselves and relax.

The Terman studies, which have been in progress in the United States since the 1920s, aim at finding gifted children. The studies have shown a link between long life and habitual participation in playing and games throughout the individual’s life. Playful properties are also believed to have significance for choosing a partner. Both women and men unconsciously reason that a playful spouse will not present a threat to them or their children.

For adults, play represents:

Enjoyable quality time with their children

A chance to give their brains a breather and to prevent them from becoming set in their ways

Exercise

Creativity

Did you know that...

Our ancestors dedicated a lot more energy to play. According to anthropologist Marshall Sahlins, communities of hunter-gatherers spent around four hours a day on work. The remainder was dedicated to playing and games.