The Science and Importance of Play, in Health, Education and In the Workplace

What do you think of when you hear someone talking, or see news about toys, games and play? Does your mind immediately go to the thought that this must be about children? If you answered yes, you could not be more incorrect.

Play is a universal and essential aspect of human development, learning and well-being for all ages. It is not only a source of joy and fun for children, but for adults too. Play is a powerful way of stimulating the brain, enhancing cognitive skills and fostering social and emotional competencies.

Play can take many forms, from physical activities to imaginative games, from solitary pursuits to collaborative projects and from structured rules to spontaneous improvisations. It can occur in the digital world or in real life. But, regardless of the type, play always involves curiosity, creativity, challenge and feedback, which are the key ingredients for effective learning.

In this article we’ll explore the scientific evidence and practical implications of play for various domains of human development, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), learning, mental health and adult play. We will examine how play can promote the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are essential for the 21st century such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication and resilience. Also discussed here will be how play can enhance the well-being and happiness of children and adults by reducing stress, anxiety, depression and boredom, and by increasing self-esteem, self-regulation and empathy. Finally, we will offer several recommendations and suggestions on how to foster a culture of play in different settings, such as schools, workplaces, families and communities.

How toys and game play promote the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are essential in the 21st century and beyond

Playing games and using toys have always been an effective way to develop skills. This continues to be true for the 21st century, including abilities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and creativity. The earliest known toys were made from natural materials such as rocks, sticks and clay. Thousands of years ago, Egyptian children played with dolls that had wigs and movable limbs which were crafted of stone, pottery and wood. In ancient Greece and Rome, children played with dolls made of wax or terra cotta, sticks, bows and arrows. “Toys are a reflection of life and teach life skills,” says Jacob R. Miles III, who worked on the Easy Bake Oven, Girder and Panel and Play Doh, among other famous toys, as a young engineer at Kenner Toys.

It’s fascinating and almost revolutionary how toys have evolved over time, from simple objects made of natural materials, to complex electronic devices that can be programmed to do almost anything. While toys have always been an important part of childhood, they are also an important facet of adult life.

One of the fastest growing segments in the toy industry today is toys for adult collectors. According to a recent CNBC report, the toy industry is being kept afloat by two things: Inflation, and a consumer group known as “kidults.” Kidults are adults who still have a fondness for cartoons, super heroes and collectibles that remind them of the innocence of their childhoods. These individuals are responsible for one-fourth of all toy sales annually, totaling almost $9 billion, and are the biggest driver of growth throughout the industry. This cohort, which the NPD Group defines as ages 12 and older, continues to play a vital role in the development of children’s and adult’s imaginations, creativity and social skills.

Games and toys can be an effective way to develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and creativity. They can simulate adventure and keep our brains engaged and happy, which renders them a highly effective channel for learning. As an example, the MAP Esports Network provides career-focused, fun digital experiences like esports, gaming, sim racing media, AI and robotics for career development and team building, and teaches digital literacy to corporations. MAP has partnered with the Financial Modeling World Cup, which operates the Microsoft Financial Modeling World Cup—financial modeling esports competitions that welcome individual and team participation as well as corporate and brand sponsorship.

Some toys, such as vintage action figures from popular marquee brands like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, He-Man and the Transformers, plus rare, limited-edition dolls, well-known board games, retro video games, antique tin toys, comic books, authentic LEGO sets and historical model trains are in high demand and can command significant dollars today. Not all toys and games are created equal, however, and many do not become investment-grade collectibles. Like any investment, research is critical before investing in vintage toys and games.

How play, toys and games positively impact mental health in children and adults

Playing games and using toys can have a positive impact on mental health. As reported by the BBC, adults who demonstrate more playful personality traits also tend to be more motivated, creative and spontaneous. There have even been linkages suggesting that people with more playful characteristics have generally lower blood pressure on average.

Play can also be a way to relieve stress and improve mood. A long-term study released in 2013 revealed that playing simple games can help a player improve their mood, relax, reduce their anxiety and manage difficult feelings like grief and anger. Other research found that playing nonviolent puzzle games for 30 minutes daily could help lessen symptoms of clinical depression—particularly in older adults—and that an hour spent playing popular multiplayer battle games improved one’s ability to focus, at least temporarily. In 2021, Oxford University researchers echoed these findings, similarly reporting that people who enjoyed long sessions of playing nonviolent games were more likely to report a sense of positive well-being.

Regardless of age, culture, gender or personal preference, playing games and using toys can have positive impacts on mental health. Doing so helps improve mood, reduces anxiety, empowers us to manage difficult feelings and even potentially lowers blood pressure, so it’s essential to take some time out of our busy days and put play back on our calendars. And, last but not least, have some fun!

Resources: Recommendations for creating a culture of play in schools, workplaces, households and communities –

• National Science Foundation
• MAP Esports Network Inc. dba MAP Digital Network
• Global Digital Divide Initiative™
• The Toy Association
• Entertainment Software Association
• Stanford Videogame Association
• My American Toy Story – author, Jacob R. Miles III
• UNICEF – “How play strengthens your child’s mental health”
• Minnesota Children’s Museum – “Play boosts emotional and mental health”