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What is Play? It is a state of being that is intensely pleasurable. It energizes and enlivens us. It eases our burdens, renews a natural sense of optimism and opens us up to new possibilities. These wonderful, valuable qualities are just the beginning of what play is.
Scientists - neuroscientists, developmental biologists, psychologists, scientists from every point on the scientific compass - have recently begun viewing play as a profound biological process.
They are learning that play sculpts our brain; it makes us smarter and more adaptable. For many animal species it has evolved over eons with result that the most advanced animals play the most i.e., play is more central to their development. Humans are the biggest players of all, specially designed by nature to play throughout our long lives.
National Institute for Play cited in New York Times “Putting the Skinned Knees Back Into Playtime” |