We often underestimate the importance of play in a child’s life. Sometimes we view play as simply a way of distracting our children so that we can get things done. But play is so much more, especially when paired with joyful interaction with someone with whom they are bonded. Play is an essential part of a child’s development and enhances the progress of early development by 34%. Just 10 minutes of play improves children’s performance.
15.5 million U.S. children live in poverty and many lack playtime in their daily lives. Toys“R”Us has partnered with Save the Children (a nonprofit committed to ensuring all U.S. children have a healthy start) in a fundraising and awareness campaign to provide kids in impoverished regions of the country with opportunities and resources to integrate purposeful play into their everyday lives; a factor proven critical in children’s emotional, physical and cognitive development and future growth.
The #PlayWithPurpose campaign is designed to support Save the Children’s early childhood development programs which help children in some of America’s most underserved communities thrive. To further assist families, Toys“R”Us will provide Save the Children with “play packs” filled with toys that build key skills and encourage socialization, along with informational materials to educate parents on the benefits of engaging with their children during play.
On Tuesday, March 29 at 2PM EST, Toys“R”Us and Save the Children will host a Twitter Chat with Judie Jerald, Senior Advisor for Early Childhood Education Policy at Save the Children Action Network, using #PlayWithPurpose, to discuss the campaign, importance of play, and ways caregivers can engage little ones during this critical time in their development. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about the value of play and to get more information on the #PlayWithPurpose campaign.
Click here to learn more about the #PlayWithPurpose campaign and to make a donation today (now through April 24). Donations will support Save the Children’s early childhood development programs.
Disclaimer: I have teamed up with Toys“R”Us in support of this campaign. We received compensation for participation in this campaign. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.