Children who engage in creative and active play grow up to be healthier adults, according to a British study.
Children who engage in creative and active play grow up to be healthier adults, according to a British study.
The researchers studied 505 young adults who provided information about their health and their childhood play experiences. A range of information about weight, health and health behaviour was also collected. Four types of play were identified - active play, play involving technology, playing alone and creative play.
The four types of play activity were found to be associated in different ways with adult health. Higher levels of creative play in childhood predicted good adult health habits, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. More active play in childhood was associated with better overall health and more exercise in adulthood. Adults who had environmental restrictions on play - such as less time or places to play - were more likely to be overweight and have less healthy lifestyles.
The findings show that children's play patterns have implications for establishing healthy habits in adulthood. The researchers recommend that adults should stop restricting children and encourage them to engage in active and creative activities.
The researchers studied 505 young adults who provided information about their health and their childhood play experiences. A range of information about weight, health and health behaviour was also collected. Four types of play were identified - active play, play involving technology, playing alone and creative play.
The four types of play activity were found to be associated in different ways with adult health. Higher levels of creative play in childhood predicted good adult health habits, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. More active play in childhood was associated with better overall health and more exercise in adulthood. Adults who had environmental restrictions on play - such as less time or places to play - were more likely to be overweight and have less healthy lifestyles.
The findings show that children's play patterns have implications for establishing healthy habits in adulthood. The researchers recommend that adults should stop restricting children and encourage them to engage in active and creative activities.
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