Powerful Play: Fun, Active and Open-Ended

Play is particularly powerful when a child’s own interests drive the activity.

That is, when adults follow a child’s lead or guide without taking over.

Playful activities are:

Captivating and fun – Kids are focused and having a good time.
Active and challenging – Kids are moving and thinking.
Self-directed and open-ended – Kids are taking the lead and exploring freely.

What does powerful play look like in action?

If your child is doing these things, you’ll know it’s powerful play:

Having a good time – My child enjoys the activity.
Showing interest – My child is alert and engaged.
Moving and thinking – My child is physically and mentally active.
Exploring freely – My child is choosing what to do and how to do it.