What are the benefits of play? Drawing on the work of attachment theorist Dr. Gordon Neufeld, this post explores the essential functions of play, including emotional processing, psychological rest, and improving and protecting relationships.

Play is spontaneous, engaging, expressive, and free from outcomes or expectations. In Part 1 of the “What Is Play?” series, we explore the core qualities that define play and differentiate play from other activities. Understanding these qualities matters for anyone who wants to appreciate or support play.

Play is a child’s natural language, and in play-based therapy, that language becomes a powerful tool for emotional growth. In this blog post, I explain how non-directive play helps children express feelings, build self-esteem, develop self-regulation, and practice problem-solving.