The Mental Benefits of Play

During July 2020, Voice of Play and the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) conducted a national survey of 1,000 U.S. parents ages 18 and older to determine the importance of play on the mental impacts of social injustice. According to the survey, 88 percent of parents agree outdoor play helps children cope with the mental impacts of social injustice. Here are some of the detailed findings from the survey. To learn more, read the press release at tinyurl.com/424mdp2n.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: Outdoor play helps children cope with the mental impacts of social injustice in the United States.

Agree strongly 49% Agree somewhat 38% Disagree somewhat 9% Disagree strongly 4%

Agree (net) 88% Disagree (net) 12%

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: My child’s spontaneous play with other kids on the playground shapes their view of equality for all, regardless of race and ability levels.

Agree strongly 52% Agree somewhat 40% Disagree somewhat 6% Disagree strongly 3%

Agree (net) 91% Disagree (net) 9%

During July 2020, Voice of Play and the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association conducted a national survey to determine the importance of play on the mental impacts of social injustice.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: Playing on the playground helps children to be inclusive of others who may have different abilities and backgrounds than their own.

Agree strongly 52% Agree somewhat 40% Disagree somewhat 6% Disagree strongly 2%

Agree (net) 92% Disagree (net) 8%

What top positive impacts do you see from your children playing with other children on public playgrounds?

Playing with children of all abilities 42% Improved physical fitness 42% Less screen time 38% Confidence boosting 30% Increased motivation 25% Getting along better with siblings and parents 24% Increased problem-solving skills 23% More patience 19% None of these 4%

Any (net) 96%

What steps within your own community do you think would have the greatest impact on increasing opportunities for play for all children?

Increased government funding for constructing inclusive playground equipment 26% Policy changes to keep recess and physical education programs in school 25% Community action to increase access to playgrounds 22% Increased government funding for organized athletic programs (such as community soccer) 17% None of these 10%

Any (net) 90%

Which of the following, if any, do you feel is a benefit of playing as a family?

Improves connection with others 67% Reduces stress 65% Encourages creativity 55% Teaches cooperation 51% Creates a foundation for lifelong fitness 49% Deepens a sense of belonging 48% None of the above 3%

Any (net) 97%

Eighty-eight percent of parents agree outdoor play helps children cope with the mental impacts of social injustice.