Learning to play is a serious matter: especially with your peers it has a protective function on mental health, even at pre-school age.
Playing well with others in preschool age has a protective effect on children’s mental health even in later years: this was demonstrated by research by the University of Cambridge on data from 1,700 children between 3 and 7 years old.
Quality game. What counts is the quality, rather than the quantity, of play between peers: the most protective effect is found in games that encourage collaboration and sharing, which help children build healthy relationships with peers that are the basis of future, solid friendships.
Behavioral problems. The most vulnerable children, for example because they are subject to hyperactivity or behavioural, emotional and relational problems, could benefit from play opportunities “guided” by professionals.
Right to play. The essential educational role of play is also recognized by the 1989 Convention on the Rights of Children and Adolescents, which in Article 31 protects children’s right to rest, leisure and play.
