The Fathering Project

The benefits of playing with your child

Father-child playtime is an important aspect of a child’s development. Playtime not only allows for bonding and building a stronger relationship between a father and child, but it also has significant positive effects on a child’s development. In this short blog, we will explore the benefits of fathers and father figures simply playing with their children, and how it positively impacts their development.

1. Builds Social Skills – Fathers playing with their children allows children to develop social skills, such as cooperation, sharing, and taking turns. These skills are important for future social interactions, such as making friends, school, and work environments. Father-child playtime can also help children develop emotional intelligence by learning how to identify and manage emotions through role-playing and other types of play.
2. Encourages Physical Development – Fathers playing with their children can also have a significant impact on a child’s physical development. Activities such as throwing and catching a ball, riding a bike, or simply running around can help develop gross motor skills, coordination, and balance. These skills are essential for a child’s overall development, and the opportunities to engage in physical activity with their fathers are important.
3. Enhances Cognitive Development – Fathers playing with their children can help children develop their cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, imagination, and creativity. Playtime can also help with language development as children learn new words and phrases through storytelling and role-playing. Furthermore, playtime can help with spatial awareness and mathematical skills as children learn to measure and count objects during play.
4. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem – Fathers playing with their children helps children to develop a sense of self-esteem and confidence. When fathers play with their children, they naturally provide encouragement and positive reinforcement, which helps them to feel valued and supported. When children feel valued and supported, they are more likely to take on new challenges, try new things, and develop and improve their self-efficacy.
5. Creates Lifelong Memories – Fathers playing with their children can create lifelong memories that they will cherish for years to come. These memories can have a lasting impact on a child’s development, as they provide a positive experience that children can reflect upon and draw upon for strength and inspiration as they grow older. These memories can also help foster a strong relationship between fathers and children, which can provide a foundation for a lifetime of love and support.

Father-child playtime is an essential aspect of a child’s development. Playtime not only provides a positive experience for children but also has significant positive effects on their physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and overall development. Fathers who spend quality time playing with their children help build strong relationships, foster positive memories, and positively impact their children’s future.

So dads, take the time to play with your children, as the benefits are immeasurable for everyone involved!

There are more tips on “play being a game changer”  in our Dads Group resources.  Join a Dads Group in your community and come together as influential men to change children’s lives.

Check out this podcast with Dr Jennifer StGeorge on the research of rough and tumble play.

Have you enjoyed this article? Learn more about how to create meaningful moments with your children through Activities with Kids.

Dad joke of the week

"Why can't a leopard hide? Because they are always spotted!"