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Doctor’s Note: Why Play Is Powerful Medicine

How Simple Moments of Play Shape a Child’s Future

by Dr. Douglas Halbert, MD, FAAP, Healthcare Network

hen we think about raising healthy children, a few 2. Make Hands-On Play the Easy Choice
essentials quickly come to mind: nutritious meals, quality Environment matters. When toys are visible and within reach,
W sleep, routine checkups, emotional support and plenty toddlers are more likely to engage with them instead of defaulting to a
of physical activity. But there’s another critical ingredient in healthy screen.
development that often gets overlooked: play. Rotating toys, rather than offering everything at once, keeps
Play isn’t just entertainment. It’s one of the most powerful tools activities fresh and prevents overwhelm. Fewer choices often lead to
we have to nurture a child’s brain, strengthen relationships and build deeper concentration and more imaginative play. Keeping tablets and
lifelong skills. digital devices out of sight can also reduce temptation and encourage
In fact, research continues to show that during the first three years independent exploration.
of life, when a child’s brain is developing at an extraordinary pace, Independent play is especially valuable. It helps build confidence,
playful interactions lay the groundwork for language, problem-solving attention span, creativity and early problem-solving skills, all
abilities, emotional regulation and social connection. These early foundations for future learning.
moments matter more than many parents realize. 3. Embrace the (Healthy) Chaos
Here in Southwest Florida, Healthcare Network is helping bring Play can be noisy. It can be messy. It can look a little chaotic.
this science to life through Prescription for Play, an initiative developed But that “chaos” is often where the magic happens.
by the Weitzman Institute in partnership with The LEGO® Group. When children build towers that topple, dance wildly in the living
The program equips families with simple tools to turn everyday room or invent elaborate pretend scenarios, they are experimenting,
moments into opportunities for learning and connection. imagining and strengthening neural connections. Instead of shutting it
During routine well-child visits, pediatric providers share free down, create safe spaces and clear boundaries that allow energetic play
LEGO® DUPLO® brick kits and educational materials with children to flourish.
ages 18 to 36 months. What could feel like an intimidating doctor’s Simple guidelines like “we run outside” or “we use indoor voices after
appointment becomes something joyful and engaging. As children dinner” provide structure without stifling creativity.
build and explore, providers gain valuable insight into developmental Building Brains, One Block at a Time
milestones, and families leave with practical ideas they can use at home. A child’s early years represent a critical window for development. The
The encouraging news? You don’t need a special program to make experiences they have, especially shared, joyful ones, help shape how they
play powerful. It can happen anywhere: in the kitchen, the backyard, learn, connect and thrive for the rest of their lives.
the grocery store or the living room. The beauty of play is its simplicity. Building blocks. Finger painting.
If you’re ready to make play a more intentional part of your family’s Dancing in the kitchen. Reading a silly story with funny voices. These
routine, here are three simple ways to get started. small moments may feel ordinary, but they carry extraordinary impact.
1. Turn Everyday Moments into Playful Opportunities When we make room for play, we aren’t just filling time. We’re
Play doesn’t have to mean adding more to your already full building brains. We’re strengthening bonds. And we’re laying the
schedule. It can be woven into what you’re already doing. foundation for lifelong health and well-being.
Try brushing teeth to a favorite song or creating a sticker reward About the Author
ritual. Turn grocery shopping into a color scavenger hunt. Make Dr. Douglas Halbert, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician and
cleaning up a sorting game by talking about shapes, textures and Director of Population Health at Healthcare Network. He participates in the
sizes. When play becomes part of daily life, it feels natural — not like Prescription for Play program and is passionate about helping children reach
another task on your to-do list. developmental milestones through connection and creativity.
To learn more about Healthcare Network’s pediatric services, visit
HealthcareSWFL.org or call 239.658.3000 to schedule an appointment.

239-658-3000 HealthcareSWFL.org SUPPORT: healthcareswfl.org/donate/

4848 www.LifeInNaples.net