The Difference Between Structured vs. Unstructured Play

Do you know the difference between structured and unstructured play? Both are important to a child's development! Structured play involves a child following directions or rules, such as one given by an adult, whereas unstructured play is a child doing what interests them or playing without direction. 🏠 Visit Pathways.org: https://www.pathways.org 👶 Download FREE Pathways.org baby app: https://pathways.org/mobile-app 🔗 Learn more about the importance of play: https://pathways.org/importance-of-pl... ___________________ Structured play: A child follows directions or rules Examples of structured play: board games, puzzles, and team activities Unstructured play: A child can do what interests them Examples of unstructured play: playing on the playground, dressing up, and exploring the outdoors Most toys can be either structured or unstructured, depending on how baby plays with it The key is to find a balance between the types of play Toddlers should spend at least 1 hour in free unstructured play And at least 30 minutes in adult-led, structured play 2 types of play means more opportunities for learning! Skills developed through play: 1. Creativity and imagination 2. Discovering interests 3. Problem solving 4. Building confidence 5. Understanding social situations 6. Flexibility and adaptability And more...so get playing! ___________________ 👪 ABOUT PATHWAYS.ORG Pathways.org is a non-profit organization that provides free, trusted resources so that every parent is fully empowered to support their child’s development. Our milestones are supported by American Academy of Pediatric findings. Our resources are developed with and approved by expert pediatric physical and occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists. 👋 COME JOIN US Facebook:   / pathwaysdotorg   Instagram:   / pathwaysorg   Pinterest:   / pathwaysorg   Twitter:   / pathwaysorg   00:11 Structured play 00:21 Examples of structured play 00:38 Unstructured play 00:44 Examples of unstructured play 01:13 Time spent in each type of play 01:30 Skills developed through play #childdevelopment #playtime #playmatters #kidsplay #playskills #playdevelopment All materials including videos are provided at no cost; no fees or charges may be associated with any of the Pathways.org materials without prior written approval.