Why Play Matters: Insights from an Occupational Therapist
Dr. Banumathe Karuppaya¹, Dr. Guruprasad Vijayasarathi²
¹,² Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy Program, School of Rehabilitation and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
Play is far more than a simple source of enjoyment for children; it is a vital element of their overall development. From an occupational therapy perspective, play is considered a fundamental activity that supports physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Through play, children learn essential life skills, develop an understanding of their surroundings, and build the foundations for future learning and well-being.
Physical engagement in play, whether structured or spontaneous, contributes greatly to a child’s motor development. Activities such as running, climbing, jumping, and balancing strengthen gross motor skills, while tasks like drawing, building with blocks, and manipulating small objects enhance fine motor skills, dexterity, and hand–eye coordination. Occupational therapists frequently rely on play-based interventions to support children who experience developmental delays or disabilities. Evidence from a systematic review shows that targeted interventions for children with cerebral palsy can result in significant improvements in motor performance (Case-Smith, Frolek Clark, & Schlabach, 2013).
Play also nurtures creativity and enhances cognitive and problem-solving skills. Imaginative play, puzzles, and strategic games require children to think critically, plan actions, and make decisions, skills that are indispensable for academic achievement and daily functioning. Research further suggests that play-based approaches can strengthen cognitive and executive functions in preschool-aged children (Muir, Howard, & Kervin, 2023).
Social and emotional development is equally influenced by play. Group activities, cooperative games, and role-playing help children practice communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution, while also learning to express emotions, interpret social cues, and form interpersonal connections. Occupational therapists often use peer-based and play-centered interventions to support children with social communication challenges, including those with autism spectrum disorder or anxiety disorders. A systematic review found that play-based interventions can significantly improve social communication skills in children with ASD (O’Keeffe & McNally, 2023).
For children with disabilities or developmental challenges, play serves as a powerful therapeutic tool. Occupational therapists design individualized play activities that target sensory integration, coordination, emotional regulation, and adaptive functioning. Play can also help reduce stress, build confidence, and support behavioral development. Recent evidence highlights the effectiveness of play-based sensory interventions, particularly in improving self-regulation skills among children with developmental disabilities (Meeks, Crasta, & Sheridan, 2024).
In today’s digital world, where screen time frequently replaces active play, it is increasingly important for parents, caregivers, and educators to intentionally cultivate opportunities for meaningful play. Outdoor exploration, sensory-rich activities, and interactive games are essential to ensuring holistic development. Occupational therapists emphasize the need for inclusive and accessible play environments that support children of all abilities. Research indicates that children with disabilities often experience reduced engagement in activities that promote social participation, motor development, and play, reinforcing the necessity for well-designed accessible play spaces (Gately et al., 2023).
Play is not merely a leisure activity; it is one of the most essential occupations of childhood. It contributes to the development of motor competence, emotional resilience, cognitive growth, and social understanding. Occupational therapy recognizes the profound value of play and continues to integrate it into therapeutic practice to help children achieve their fullest potential. By fostering environments where play is encouraged and accessible, we support the development of a healthier, more capable, and more confident generation.
