In recognition of the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our children since 2020, June 11th 2021 has been designated Childhood Day. We're all well aware of the impacts the pandemic has had in terms of social distancing, isolation and cancellation of normal activities and events.

For our children, this has meant seeing less of their extended family but also periods of not seeing their friends. The trials of home schooling were not limited to us struggling and juggling parents but were felt most keenly by our children themselves as they faced day after day of isolation from friends, no-one to play with or just chat to as peers. It's taken them away from being themselves and stolen a bit of their childhood but in some cases it has also brought with it increased anxiety which may manifest itself in any number of ways. It might be generalised or increased social or separation anxiety or it might show as increased obsessive or unwanted thoughts or behaviours or disturbed sleep patterns.

The goods news is that there is a way back from that and play is an important - and free - way of doing that. Play takes focus away from worries and intrusive thoughts and literally shifts focus into a different part of the brain. The creativity involved in playing means that we have to be operating from the positive, innovative and creative part of the brain rather than the part that drives our stress response. Playing with others even more so, because we're having to adapt to new facets of the game introduced by the other players as playtime evolves it.

Why is that important?

It's important because this creative, innovative and playful part of the brain is crucial to mental health and reducing anxiety. Letting it take control through the positive act of play and interaction with others gives us that natural feeling of wellbeing that comes from the release of endorphins and seratonin that are so good for our mental and physical health. We can fight those feelings of anxiety and reduce them, all through something as simple as play.

So, whatever kind of game it might be let's encourage the kids to get out and play, not just on Childhood Day but as often as we can.

... and here's a phrase for us big kids to practise ...

"Can I play too?"

If you'd like to know more about the signs and symptoms of anxiety in children please visit my dedicated page under Services.