Take the Play Promise Challenge

Creating healthy habits with a Play Promise Challenge.

Making time for PLAY can significantly boost our mental and physical well-being. An unplugged playful moment can set the tone for our day and spark joy and positivity for all those involved. Whether it’s an impromptu living room dance party or a round of your favorite card game, why not commit to the daily practice of PLAY with a Play Promise.

What is a Play Promise, you ask?

 

It’s the belief that everyone should make time for PLAY no matter their age or circumstance. We get it; making time for PLAY sounds FUN but may seem out of reach on days when we feel depleted or overwhelmed. However, like all healthy habits that enrich our lives, We always seem to feel better when we carve out time for them.

In fact, play has many health benefits due to the release of endorphins that studies show relieve stress, boost mental clarity, and spark creativity.

 

So shouldn’t everyone play if it’s so good for our mental health?

The answer is a resounding YES! Mothers, fathers, grandparents, children, babies, teens and everyone in-between. We all benefit from play! The healing benefits of play are just too good to be ignored. Not to mention, PLAY is one of the most accessible measures we can take to strengthen cognitive function and relieve stress.

Did you know Adults need PLAY just as much as children do?

Studies have shown that humans are hardwired to play, which may explain why those who lack playful tendencies may struggle with stress and depression.

Furthermore, The American Academy of Pediatrics is now recommending doctors prescribe PLAY for children, not just for development but to reduce the toxic effects of stress. Perhaps adults need the same prescription? We think YES!

Why start a Play Promise in your home?

Let’s face it, some days are tough. We all have those “missed the bus, flat tire”- kind of moments. Still, a play promise is that small, daily gesture that allows families to check in with each other and promote positive feelings. Even a small commitment of 20 mins a day has major returns on our well-being.

As tempting as it may be to classify PLAYTIME as non-essential. Make no mistake; play should be taken seriously. Did you know play can boost your productivity? Yup, include creativity, collaborative skills, and cognitive function into the mix, and you’ll find Playtime to be one of the essential tasks in your day.

The Challenge: A Play Promise

The verdict is in! Play. Changes. Everything. Make it a priority to play as little as 20 minutes a day, and you’ll find it to be a transformative habit. You may find that the more you do it, the better you’ll feel, and the better you feel, the more you’ll want to PLAY.

 

Not sure how to work PLAY into your day?

Here are a few ideas:

• Play a board game, card game or marble game after dinner
• Turn bedtime reading into Playtime
• Go outside on a nature scavenger hunt
• Have 10-minute mini-sessions throughout the day
• Work puzzles a little at a time
• Do fun crafts together
• Start a dinner-prep dance party
• Play a social game, like Asymbol in as little as 30 minutes
• Explore a fantasy world with strategy game Amalgam

Choose fun activities for everyone, and don’t be afraid to mix it’ up! If you need to schedule Playtime into a planner, make it FUN with color gel pens and stickers while getting the kids involved in the planning!

Remember* Play is essential and should be your non-negotiable healthy habit, so resolve to start a Play Promise today!

When we sprinkle play into our schedule, we may find ourselves with feelings of gratitude as a result. Play can transform a bad day into joy, a busy schedule into a mindful practice, and an uneventful day into endless learning opportunities. Ready to start your Play Promise challenge? Game On!