A Message from Gail
“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.”
-Kay Redfield Jamison
Hello Everyone,
Play is not just about fun. It is a powerful tool for growth, learning and connection at every stage of child development. From toddlers stacking blocks to teenagers joining a pick-up basketball game, play looks different across childhood. But no matter the form, play sparks curiosity, encourages problem-solving and builds resilience. At Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL), we emphasize the importance of play because it helps build stronger families while providing children with a foundation to thrive.
Strengthen Bonds with Parent-Child Play
When parents and caregivers play alongside their children, they send an important message: You are valued. You are loved. Parent-child play strengthens attachment, builds trust and provides children with a safe space to explore new skills. Something as simple as reading together, pretending to be superheroes or cooking a meal as a family can spark joy and nurture connection.
Equally important, children learn social and emotional skills during shared play. They practice cooperation, patience and communication—all tools that help them succeed in school and beyond. By being present and engaged, parents create memories and model healthy behaviors, which are key protective factors in reducing risks of abuse and neglect.
Independent Play: Building Confidence
While family playtime is vital, independent play is just as important. When children play alone, they develop self-direction, creativity and problem-solving skills. Independent play allows kids to set their own rules, make their own decisions and test their own limits in a safe way.
Parents can support this by providing safe spaces and materials for exploration, whether it’s a box of crayons, a pile of Legos or a backyard to explore. Encouraging children to entertain themselves fosters independence, confidence and skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
Play at Every Stage of Childhood
- Infants and toddlers: Use simple games like peek-a-boo, stacking blocks or exploring textures. These activities build motor skills and strengthen caregiver bonds.
- Preschoolers: Imaginative play like dress-up, storytelling or building forts sparks creativity and problem-solving.
- School-age children: Board games, sports or team projects encourage cooperation, rule-following and persistence.
- Teenagers: Activities like playing cards, outdoor sports or even video games can strengthen relationships while offering healthy outlets for stress.
Making Play a Priority
Prioritizing play doesn’t require elaborate plans or expensive materials. The most important step is simply building it into your daily routine; even 10 minutes of focused play can make a lasting difference. In today’s busy world, it can be easy to overlook play in favor of schoolwork, chores and schedules. But play is not a luxury, it is a necessity. By prioritizing both shared and independent play, parents give their children the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially and academically.
At KCSL, we are here to support families in creating those positive childhood experiences. Through our programs and partnerships, we encourage play as one of the simplest, most joyful ways to strengthen families and build healthier communities.
Sincerely,
Gail Cozadd
KCSL CEO
