Benefits of Mixed Age Play
Submitted by Justice Thompson, YMCA of Lethbridge
Written by Chayse Stasiuk (Social Work Practicum Student for YMCA of Lethbridge)
When we think of play, often the first thing that comes to mind is young kids running and laughing, playing imaginative games and having fun. What we don’t often think of is older kids playing, and even less often, adults playing. Yet play between children of different ages and play between children and adults is hugely beneficial- not just to the kids, but to everyone!
When it comes to play among children of mixed ages, older children benefit just as much as the younger children from this play- and they enjoy it just as much too. When younger children engage in play with older children, they are given opportunities to join in and learn from activities they could not do on their own or with playmates of the same age (Gray, 2011). For example, a group of eight-year-olds would not be able to play an elaborate card game where they needed to strategize, keep track of rules and scores, and pay lots of attention. But if those eight-year-olds play the same card game with a group of thirteen-year-olds, the older children can help the younger ones remember rules, learn strategy, and keep on task. Younger children also have the chance to receive emotional support and care greater than they would get from peers of their own age, and overall are able to gain more social skills, physical skills, and knowledge from interacting with and observing older children than if they only played with children their own age (Gray, 2011). On the flip side, when older children and adolescents play with younger children, they are provided with the opportunity to practice leading, teaching, and nurturing, as well as giving them the inspiration for creative and imaginative activities (Gray, 2011). Mixed-age play offers many learning and growth opportunities that children enjoy engaging in when they are given the opportunity.
But the benefits of play between different ages is not just limited to children and adolescents. When children get to play with adults- whether it's different adults in their family or even family friends or teachers- they can improve social, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as bond and create shared memories or traditions (Gummer, n.d.). Children who frequently play with adults often display higher levels of language development and problem-solving skills than their peers, and have the chance to interact with positive role models (Gummer, n.d.). As well, when children engage in intergenerational play they learn more cooperation and honesty, gain an understanding of aging, and have their horizons expanded (Gummer, n.d.). Giving children the chance to play with the adults in their lives allows them to try new, risky, or difficult things in an environment of safety and care.
And the benefits don’t only apply to the children engaging in intergenerational play. When adults regularly engage in play- especially physical play- it has a massive benefit in their health through building and maintaining muscle tone and coordination as well as maintaining cognitive skills such as memory (Gummer, n.d.). Play also helps reduce stress, promote relaxation, prevent loneliness, and even give older adults a sense of purpose (Gummer, n.d.). As we age, play often becomes more uniformed and structured, with rules, less spontaneity and more competition. Engaging in intergenerational play allows for play to shift from competitive activities to more collaborative, playful ones (Gummer, n.d.).
When we encourage intergenerational play, we get the best elements of different generations. Children bring creativity, energy, laughter, and innocence, while older adults bring experience, wisdom, and guidance. The combination of these traits leads to experiences that are meaningful and enjoyable for everyone who participates. Play between people of all ages is a chance to share, learn, grow, and mostly importantly, have fun. Play breaks down barriers and allows for people to connect in a way that’s enjoyable and authentic so that they can build or strengthen relationships. Playing at every age is important, but playing across and between ages is even more important.
Gray, P. (2011). The special value of children’s age-mixed play. American Journal of Play (vol. 3). (pp. 500-522). https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ985544.pdf
Gummer, A. (n.d.). 14 reasons to play at every age. The Genius of Play. https://thegeniusofplay.org/genius/expert-advice/articles/14-reasons-to-play-at-every-age.aspx#.ZBIXyhTMJD9
Photo: YMCA Canada Photo Bank