The Importance of Play and Physical Activity in Children

Anthony Cameli, CEO Families and Community Together (FACT)

Children experience the world through their senses, their imaginations and their bodies. Physical play is not just about burning off energy or filling up free time. It’s a vital part of childhood that supports emotional development, builds confidence, and creates lasting foundations for physical and mental health. When kids run, jump, dance or play tag with friends, they are learning to take risks, problem-solve, and navigate the world around them. These moments of movement help children feel strong, capable, and connected.

Being active also gives children an outlet for big emotions and a way to release stress. It provides opportunities for laughter, teamwork and creativity, all of which help children build social skills and learn to cooperate with others. For many kids, physical play is their first experience setting goals and working hard to meet them, whether it’s learning to ride a bike or making it across the monkey bars. In addition to all of this, physical activity also helps regulate sleep and focus, which supports their ability to learn. 

Daily physical activity also supports physical health by strengthening muscles, bones and cardiovascular systems. It helps prevent chronic illness and sets healthy patterns early in life. But physical play doesn’t need to be structured or scheduled to have these benefits. Whether it happens at recess, in the backyard or during a spontaneous dance party in the living room, what matters is that kids are moving, exploring and having fun.

Children thrive when their environments support their growth, and that includes having access to safe, enriching opportunities for physical activity. But not all families or neighborhoods have equal access to parks, playgrounds, recreation programs or safe walking routes. In many underserved communities, barriers like lack of transportation, limited resources, or unsafe streets can make it harder for children to engage in regular physical play. This is where care coordination and strong community partnerships make a difference.

When healthcare providers, schools, community organizations and local leaders work together, they can identify gaps and find creative solutions. Care coordination can help families connect with free or low-cost programs, navigate transportation options, or advocate for improvements in neighborhood safety. Community partners can pool resources to bring play spaces to where children already are—schools, housing developments, community centers or faith-based organizations. These collaborations can create new opportunities for kids to move, play and belong.

In every community, kids need safe, accessible spaces where they can be active and free. Families, caregivers and schools all play a role in protecting time and space for play. When we support children’s right to move, we are supporting their right to thrive.