Play is essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Play also offers an ideal opportunity for parents to engage fully with their children.

Despite the benefits derived from play for both children and parents, time for free play has been markedly reduced for some children because of a variety of factors including working parents, socio-economic factors, lack of space and lack of knowledge on how to play.

While children need time to play alone and with other children, playing with their parents is also important. This presentation will cover helpful ways to encourage children and parents to play more including establishing regular play times, imaginative play techniques, letting children take the lead, unstructured play and the importance of fun and laughter.