After school, sitting on the sofa, watching a film or playing a game for a while: screens have become a normal part of children’s daily lives. Nevertheless, it remains important that there is also plenty of opportunity for active play.
Active play means much more than just physical activity. Children discover what they are capable of, use their imagination and interact with others. That is precisely why play remains important, even as children get older
Discovering new skills through play
Whilst playing actively, children are constantly using their bodies. They run, jump, spin, climb and try to keep their balance. Without even realising it, they are practising various motor skills.
In addition, children get to know their own limits better and better. Something that seems exciting or difficult the first time around might suddenly work out after a few attempts. That sense of achieving something on their own can help build their self-confidence.
Playing together is also learning together
Active play often takes place in a group. Children come up with games, make agreements, wait for one another and try to complete a challenge together.
Of course, things don’t always go to plan. Sometimes everyone wants to go first, the children can’t agree on the rules, or someone else wins. That’s all part of playing too. In this way, children practise cooperating and getting on with others in a natural way.
A change from screens
Of course, there’s no need to put tablets, phones or games consoles away straight away. The main thing is to ensure there’s enough variety throughout the day.
An active afternoon can be a fun way to achieve this. At Bounce Valley, for example, children are given plenty of space to explore the inflatable park for themselves. Instead of staring at a screen, they become part of the adventure themselves.
They decide which challenge to take on, play together and, whilst doing so, often come up with their own games.
Fun makes being active feel natural
For children, being active doesn’t always have to mean a training session or a sports lesson. It’s precisely free play that can ensure they’re being active without it feeling like work.
That’s also what makes a visit to Bounce Valley so much fun. The aim isn’t to get through as many exercises as possible. Children come to have fun and, in the process, are moving around plenty.
This way, being active becomes something they look forward to themselves.
Give active play space to flourish
Why does active play remain important? Because when children play, they don’t just move around – they also explore, experiment, work together and, above all, have lots of fun.
Whether that’s outdoors with friends, whilst playing sport or on an active day out: give children regular opportunities to set off on their own adventures. At Bounce Valley, such an active adventure is certainly waiting for them.
