As parents, it’s hard not to worry about children taking risks and the potential of hurting themselves. Lots of parents often admit to ‘wrapping their children in bubble wrap’. But did you know that risky play is crucial to the development of a child?
Children need to be able to assess the limits and capabilities of their own bodies and surroundings, and to learn persistence when trying new things.
‘Risky play’ is a term used to describe exciting play activities where children engage in risk without certainty of the outcome.
Examples of risky play may include:
It’s a popular concept in childcare centres as children are supported by their educators to take risks, which in turn leads to new learning experiences. Children are allowed to recognise a challenge and form a plan of action.
You may be surprised to learn risky play comes with a whole host of other benefits for children too:
So our advice is, let your child get involved in risky play! Parental supervision is always important…but maybe you can take that bubble wrap off and take an extra step back next time you visit the playground!
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