What is unstructured play, and why is it so crucial for my child?

Unstructured play is something that is important for your child in order to develop their confidence and sense of self. There are no set rules or restrictions during unstructured play, but it nonetheless stimulates the brain and is most likely something your child will have fun doing!

Here is a more detailed explanation of unstructured play, along with more specific details of why it is good for your child to engage in. 

The difference between structured and unstructured play:

The main difference between structured and unstructured play are the (lack of) rules and guidelines. If your children are playing a certain game with predetermined rules, like hide and seek or tag, it is considered to be structured play.

Conversely, running around the park or playing make-believe would be considered unstructured play. Both of these activities require a “figure it out as you go” attitude, with no rules or ultimate goals aside from having fun. 

Another example of structured play might be following the instructions that come with a construction or block set. While instructions like this are sometimes good, at times they can also restrict the creativity of your child.

However, this activity could easily transition to unstructured play if your child chooses to ignore the directions and create their own model. 

Benefits of no-rules and free play:

There are undoubtedly many benefits that come with your child partaking in unstructured play. Here are some of the best. 

• Physical interaction and exercise

The initial development of a child requires freedom and exposure to the world. By letting them play freely and explore nature, they are more likely to become curious about the world around them and develop an analytical and critical eye for problem solving.

While leaving out rules in their playtime, they are also able to grow physically stronger. Many rules in games may limit performance and physicality,

 Without those rules your child can build muscles that would otherwise lay dormant. Sports are obviously rule-heavy ways of playing, but it might be beneficial to let your child stretch their physical and creative muscles by trying to come up with a sport without rules! 

• Cognitive development 

It’s important for children to develop their cognitive abilities early. Just like anything else, healthy habits early on make the brain grow stronger. Mental progression occurs when people are enthusiastic and interested in what they’re doing, and what’s more fun for your child than playtime?

Unstructured play can increase their creativity and decision making abilities by forcing them to find new methods, solutions, and rules every time they play. Further, playing the same game with new rules every time is a healthy activity for the flexibility of your child’s brain.

It will help them better adjust to and accept new situations in their life, as well as improvise when plans go awry. Developing a flexible brain like this is important for children, as it prepares them for the unexpectedness they will face later in life. 

• Sense of freedom

Being controlled or watched all the time can be irritating and annoying for your child, which might limit their expression or cause them to act problematic.

You want your child to be expressive by identifying their strengths and passions. Continued guidance and coaching are good in moderation, but too much can damage your child’s sense of independence.

If they feel they are too restricted, they might lash out and rebel. The essence of unstructured play is to allow freedom while expressing their natural talents and discovering new ways of solving problems.

If your child feels like they are constantly being controlled and restricted, they may end up dealing with issues like anxiety and depression later in life.

Unstructured play helps alleviate this pressure by creating a relaxed, constructive atmosphere in their free time. 

Conclusion 

The physical and mental capabilities that emerge in childhood need an environment to thrive in. Rules, like much else, are good in moderation. But, I highly recommended that you allow your child opportunities to engage in unstructured play.

Free play is always beneficial and often more fun than orthodox, rule-based activities. Unstructured play helps your child to create new creative scenarios and ask questions that rule-based games may not provide an opportunity for.

It supports a strong imagination, physical coordination, and helps develop important cognitive skills that your child will need later in their life. 

Author Bio :

Andy Earle is a researcher who studies parent-teen communication and adolescent risk behaviors. He is the co-founder of talkingtoteens.com, ghostwriter at WriteItGreat.com, and host of the Talking to Teens podcast, a free weekly talk show for parents of teenagers.