Play & Development

Play & Development

At Miracle Recreation, we believe kids want action, and every climb, swing and game of tag is doing more than burning energy. Play is where children build balance and coordination, stretch their imaginations, practice pretend play and learn to think in new ways. It’s also where they make friends, work as a team and find out what they’re capable of.

Our Play and Development articles dig into the research and everyday moments that show why time on the playground matters, from the benefits of playing outside to the role recess plays in social skills, mental health and joy.

You’ll also find plenty of ideas to put play into practice. Teachers can browse classroom games, STEM activities, calming strategies and ways to work movement into lesson plans, while parents can find weekend outings, indoor recess and rainy-day activities and tips for trading screen time for green time.

Planning a field day, an obstacle course or a winter adventure? Start here. Since 1927, we’ve been helping kids discover the thrill of play, and these resources are here to help you bring that same spark to every child in your care.

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Blog Posts

Benefits of Play for Different Age Groups

Playgrounds encourage an environment where kids of different ages and personalities can play together. There are opportunities for new experiences and learning, whether it is through independent play or in a teamwork situation. Kids are…
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Gallatin Park Playground Group Swing

The Importance of Imagination in Child Development

Imagination is pivotal for human development, driving creativity, problem-solving, and personal growth. It serves as a mental canvas for innovative ideas, propelling us beyond conventional limits. In essence, it is integral to our…
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The Importance of Climbing in Child Development

It’s impossible to overstate the benefits of play, and while any kind of play is great, climbing has a special role in child development. Climbing is a unique activity that engages multiple parts of the brain and helps kids develop…
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How to Help Your Child Adjust to a New School

It’s very normal for students to feel strange for a while after they transition to a new school. This is especially true if your family has moved and they’re also experiencing a new home environment. When kids are stressed, they may…
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The Most Popular School Playground Games

Children play many classic outdoor games on school playgrounds, many of which have been played for generations, and some are new for this generation of youngsters. Kids love playing, whether it’s during recess, after school, on the…
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