Play is no trivial matter. Observe mammals in nature and you’ll notice that through interactions with siblings and adults, cubs learn essential life skills. They assess and develop strength, develop hunting skills, collaborate and protect one another in case of danger and threats and get to know their environment. In an age of overwhelming presence of technology, one might think play is a rather “basic”, if not an archaic pastime. Why go back to nature or the familiar living room floor and get messy, when recreation is just a click away and instantly available?
Playtime is not just about fun; it is at the core of the development of the child. They explore the world and learn about both their natural and social environment. Through play, children develop essential cognitive and emotional skills, while expressing their creativity in a non-performing environment. There are no assessments, evaluations and scores at the end of the activity, just scruffy hair, dirty clothes and an overwhelming feeling of satisfaction. Play is one of the rare activities where the process is as important as the result if not more important. The outcome is not the purpose of play, rather having a good time and enjoy oneself either alone or in company of friends and/or whānau.
Through play, children explore their strengths, develop their own way of thinking and foster their imagination, as they come up with solutions when encountering a challenge. They work together with peers, solve issues and conflicts when they inevitably occur and learn to compromise. But mostly, they learn from failure and become resilient. When you fall- whether literally or symbolically- you pick yourself up again and move on. No drama.
Besides outdoor play in the backyard, community parks and nature play spaces, Christchurch city offers a range of play opportunities for young and old. Bubbletimes at the Christchurch swimming pools, sensory spaces at Pioneer and Parakiore, Christchurch Art Gallery also has play opportunities, and of course there is much fun to be had in our libraries across Ōtautahi! Check out the toys and activities available in the Children's area at your local library next time you visit.
So, switch off the devices and get messy in-or outside and enjoy yourself!
Get your play on with library resources
- Imagination Station
- Crafts for kids
- Giant floor puzzles at Tūranga (New to our collection)
More about play and Play Week 2026
Tanya,
Library Assistant, Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre
Add a comment to: Why play matters: Play Week 19 October to 25 October