Let Them Play
Why Unstructured Time is So Important for Kids
If you’re anything like the families I work with, your days are full. Between school, sports, lessons, and screen time, it can feel like every minute is accounted for. But something really important is getting lost in all that structure: free, unstructured play.
This kind of play isn’t “unproductive” or a break from the “real” stuff. It’s actually some of the most important work your child can do. Research shows that unstructured, child-led play helps kids develop creativity, emotional resilience, strong relationships, and even better problem-solving skills.
In fact, the American Psychological Association highlights that unstructured play builds confidence and helps kids practice decision-making. A Scientific American article explained that kids who miss out on this kind of play often struggle more with stress and social skills later in life. As a play therapist, I see this all the time. Kids don’t just need more fun; they need space to explore, make up their own games, and express themselves without being directed.
So what does unstructured play look like in real life?
It could be a preschooler making a “soup” out of leaves and rocks. It could be a fourth grader turning a cardboard box into a spaceship. It could be two siblings creating their own made-up language. It’s creative, often messy, sometimes quiet, and completely led by the child.
Here are a few simple ways to support unstructured play at home:
1. Set the stage, then step back
Create a space filled with open-ended toys or art supplies. Think blocks, puppets, scarves, cardboard, tape, play dough. Then let your child take the lead without jumping in to give instructions.
2. Welcome boredom
Boredom is something that we have to cultivate these days. Instead of rushing to fill the quiet moments, let them sit. You might be surprised by what they come up with when they have the time and space to imagine.
3. Go outside
Nature is the best playground. Let your kids dig, climb, splash, or just wander. Collect sticks, follow bugs, crunch leaves. Outdoor play invites exploration, risk-taking, and full-body movement that kids don’t always get in structured environments.
4. Play with them and stay curious
You don’t have to be hands-off all the time. Join in their play by asking questions like “What’s this world you’re building?” or “Can I be a character in your story?” Just follow their lead and stay curious.
5. Make time for play
Even 15 or 20 minutes a day of unstructured time can make a big difference. Look for moments before dinner, after school, or on the weekends when you can clear the schedule and let them just play.
When we carve out time for unstructured play, we’re not just giving our kids something fun to do. We’re helping them build confidence, manage stress, and feel more connected to themselves and the world around them. That’s powerful stuff.
So go ahead and put out the blocks, head to the backyard, or hand them an old cardboard box. Give them the freedom to play, and watch their inner world unfold.
References
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). The many wondrous benefits of unstructured play. https://www.apa.org/topics/children/kids-unstructured-play-benefits
Moyer, M. W. (2016, May 1). Unstructured play is critical to child development. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/unstructured-play-is-critical-to-child-development/
Help Me Grow Minnesota. (n.d.). Why unstructured play is important. https://helpmegrowmn.org/HMG/HelpfulRes/Articles/WhyUnstructure/index.html
Learn & Play Childcare. (2024, November 5). Creative play ideas for kids. https://learnplaychildcare.com/2024/11/05/creative-play-ideas-for-kids/
