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This article takes an evolutionary perspective of children’s risky play, looking at evolutionary functions and the anti-phobic effects of risky play.

According to non-associative theory, infants develop fear of things (like heights and strangers) to protect them from situations they are not mature enough to naturally cope with. Risky play provides children with the experience of facing situations they were previously scared of, coupled with a thrilling positive emotion. As they learn to cope with these situations and gain a sense of mastery, their fear no longer holds power.

 The authors conclude that risky play may have evolved as a natural phobia reducing developmental mechanism and that consequently, being hindered from taking part in age appropriate risky play may in fact increase the likelihood of mental health problems later in life.

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Author: Sandseter, E. B. H., Kennair, L. E. O. (2010). Children’s risky play from an evolutionary perspective: The anti-phobic effects of thrilling experiences. Evolutionary Psychology, 9, 257–284.

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This report from the National Wildlife Federation reveals how getting down and dirty in the great outdoors — far from being a bad thing — has many benefits.  Mud play builds children’s immune systems, strengthens their cardiovascular system, assists skin with healing, improves mood, facilitates learning and decreases anxiety. It also explains why children who do not spend time outside run the risk of developing serious health issues like obesity, myopia and vitamin D deficiency.

 

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Author: National Wildlife Federation, 2012

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Current research shows that our children are more anxious and depressed than at any other time in history. Psychologist and mother of two, Kristina Towill, shares why play is critical to children’s brain development and why free, unstructured play outdoors with friends is the easiest and most effective way for children to learn essential life skills and competencies.   Includes advice on how to take action and create change.

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Length: 7m : 14s

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Current research shows that our children are more anxious and depressed than at any other time in history. Psychologist and mother of two, Kristina Towill, shares why play is critical to children’s brain development and why free, unstructured play outdoors with friends is the easiest and most effective way for children to learn essential life skills and competencies.   Includes advice on how to take action and create change.

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Length: 8m : 55s

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Professor Jennie Hudson, researcher at the Centre for Emotional Health in the Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, focusses on the prevention and treatment of children’s emotional health problems using cognitive behavioural therapy. She makes the link between a risk averse society and what that means for children’s abilities to face their fears.  Prof. Hudson explains why making mistakes are inevitable but their power to create a courageous coping model are so important.  Hear why parents are asked to encourage their children to perform little acts of bravery, often.

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Length: 17m : 44s

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Wilderness educator and Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine Judy Klein, discusses risk deficit disorder and the epidemic of anxiety in today’s adolescents. She explains why extreme risk taking in teens may also be related to the decline of risky outdoor play in early childhood. Highly recommended and informative talk.

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Length: 14m : 27s

Nature Play SA acknowledges Traditional owners of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and Elders past, present and emerging.