The Hidden Role of Play in Emotional Development
Play is often dismissed as a simple pastime, a filler between more structured activities. Yet for children with developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), play can be transformative. Far from being frivolous, it provides an essential foundation for emotional growth and resilience. In the world of therapy, structured play often takes centre stage, but unstructured, imaginative play—the kind children naturally engage in—is equally critical. It’s in these moments of creativity that children learn to navigate emotions, solve problems, and build connections with others.
For children who struggle with emotional regulation, play offers a safe space to experiment with feelings and scenarios. Pretend play allows them to step into different roles, try out new ideas, and rehearse responses to situations they might find challenging in real life. A child pretending to be a teacher, for example, can explore what it feels like to be in charge, express authority, and navigate the responsibilities that come with it. These rehearsals in imagination translate into real-world skills over time, helping children feel more confident and capable.
Unstructured play also offers children the opportunity to practice problem-solving. Whether they’re figuring out how to stack blocks without them toppling or deciding the rules of a make-believe game, they are learning how to think critically and adapt to challenges. This process builds not only cognitive skills but also emotional resilience. When a tower collapses or a game doesn’t go as planned, children have the chance to experience disappointment in a low-stakes environment and figure out how to move forward.
For parents of children with developmental delays, encouraging play might feel daunting. The demands of structured therapies and daily routines can leave little room for free time. But even short bursts of play, integrated into daily life, can make a significant difference. Simple activities like dress-up, building with blocks, or creating stories with action figures offer a wealth of opportunities for emotional and social growth. The key is to let the child lead the activity. By following their cues, parents and caregivers can provide gentle guidance while allowing the child to explore their interests and ideas freely.
Play also fosters connection. Shared moments of laughter and creativity strengthen the bond between parent and child, creating a safe space where children feel supported and understood. For children who might struggle to express their emotions verbally, play becomes a language of its own, offering insights into their thoughts and feelings. A child building a ‘fortress’ out of cushions might be expressing a need for security, while a game of ‘rescuing animals’ could reflect a desire to be seen as helpful and capable.
In a world where therapy and intervention often focus on structured activities, it’s easy to overlook the profound benefits of something as simple as play. But for children navigating the complexities of developmental delays, these unstructured moments are where some of the most meaningful growth happens. Play is not just a break from therapy; it’s a vital tool in helping children develop the emotional skills they need to thrive.
