“Some days are simply meant for playing.”Mary Anne Radmacher
Children are filled with a sense of adventure. They have constant energy to run, skip and jump and as parents we are constantly in awe of them and their never-ending enthusiasm. From the early hours of the morning until their eyes close at night our children are energised. So how do we keep them active and engaged during this time? At Horkans, we have the answer to your prayers - our brand new range of play centres!
Our Irish made play centres are built to ensure safety, whilst also fulfilling your child's exploration desires. They are guaranteed to provide your child with hours of entertainment, encouraging them to spend time in the great outdoors, breathing in the fresh air. Fun is guaranteed as your little one swings, slides and climbs the day away with friends and siblings. Let the adventures begin!
“Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.”Michael Jordan
The Benefits of Play
Research shows that 75% of brain development occurs after birth. Brain development is influenced by the activities children engage in, as theses activities stimulate and influence the pattern of the connections made between nerve cells in the brain. This process is of utmost importance in the development of a child. It influences the development of movements, language, socialisation, personal awareness, emotional well-being, creativity, problem solving and learning ability.
In a sense, the activities that children engage in in early childhood, influences their development in later life. Hence, these early childhood activities are incredibly important and play is one of the most important. Play is so influential to optimal child development that it has been recognised by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights as a right of every child. Play is a child’s way of making sense of the world, a learning tool that engages, motivates, challenges and pleases. Children are born with a natural drive to learn and play gives them this opportunity. Here we will discuss some of the key benefits of play for a child:
Physical
Spending time outside is intrinsically linked with life changing benefits. A play centre is guaranteed to get your little one up and moving, providing hours of physical exercise and the benefit of fresh air. Playing is not just fun. It also helps your kids keep physically fit and healthy. Playing outdoors allows your little one to build strong muscles, increase flexibility, balancing skills and develop movement and motor skills. Nowadays, children are spending an ever increasing amount of time in front of screens. A play centre provides a fun and healthy alternative to the glare of a screen. Better yet, play is known to improve heart and lung function and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Social
As children play and interact with one another they learn socialisation skills and their relationships grow. Play is an opportunity for children to spend time with people their own age and their friends. As they imagine, play and explore together, they create memories and relationships to cherish for a lifetime.
Play strengthens the bond between child and parent. By playing with and encouraging your child you will strengthen the relationship. Childhood is short in today's busy world. Often, it can seem difficult to give our children plenty of time to play with us. But, it is important that we do. It gives our children a sense of importance, a time to receive positive feedback and is generally met with lots of smiles.
Emotional
Free play also positively affects a child's emotional development. Research has shown that play helps to build self-confidence and esteem in a child. It also gives them an avenue to experiment with emotions. The child who engages in free play has an opportunity to grow emotionally strong, an important aspect of growing-up.
Cognitve
As your child plays and explores in their new play centre, their mind will be stimulated, which aids brain development. Studies have shown that free play affects neurological development, with play enriching your child’s mind and brain function.
Fun
Of course, one of the most important benefits of play is the fun that is experienced whilst playing. Playing brings smiles and laughter (and sometimes the odd tear!). With a play centre at hand, you can rest assured in the knowledge that your children will have many happy, healthy and fun days to come.
Are you interested in adding a play centre to your garden? If so, then check out our brand new range of premium garden centres:
Are you interested in adding a play centre to your garden? If so, just contact your local store where one of our helpful and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.