Is your child getting enough free play for optimal development?

Research shows that today’s children have significantly less free time compared to previous generations due to factors like academic commitments, structured extracurricular activities, and increased screen time. Understanding how much time is left for unstructured play can help parents reassess and prioritise this crucial part of childhood. 

This breakdown totals 19.5 hours, leaving 4.5 hours for other activities.

How free play time adds up:

Some of this time is often taken up by scheduled commitments. For example:

• 2 hours of extracurricular activities
• 2 hours of homework and screen time

This leaves only 30 minutes for true free play or unstructured activities.

What is free play?

Free play (or self-directed play) is unstructured, unscheduled time where children are free to choose their activities without the influence of screens or organised plans. This can include playing with siblings, playing card games, building with LEGO, drawing, or simply daydreaming. It is a vital part of a child's routine, allowing them to explore, imagine, and engage without external influences.

Why is free play important?

Experts suggest that primary school children should have 1-2 hours of unstructured free play or downtime daily. This type of play supports a wide range of developmental benefits:

• Cognitive growth: Free play encourages problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity.
• Social and emotional skills: Playing with peers or on their own helps children learn how to navigate social interactions, manage emotions, and develop self-confidence.
• Physical activity: Outdoor and active play enhances motor skills and overall physical health.
• Independence and resilience: Time spent in unstructured activities helps children learn to entertain themselves and build resilience when facing challenges.

How to support more free play

Adults can help by:

• Prioritising free play time in the daily schedule.
• Limiting screen time to create space for spontaneous activities.
• Encouraging downtime that allows for daydreaming and quiet moments.

Ensuring a balance between structured activities, free play, and rest is key to children's healthy development. Unstructured play gives them the freedom to explore, create, and build confidence, helping them grow into resilient and well-rounded individuals.

SchoolTV Special Report

In light of the recent weather events, SchoolTV has made available two special reports to assist families:

• Flood Support & Recovery
• Trauma Recovery

The reports provide practical guidance, emotional support and advice to help families navigate the challenges of disaster recovery. 

The reports are available on GECO.