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Focus on Play
August 2018 | Issue No. 170
The Power of Play - Banner

Play helps children learn language, math, and social skills, and lowers stress. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body, and life in important ways.

The AAP encourages parents to use play to help meet their child's health and developmental milestones. Here are some age-specific ways to do this.

Also In This Issue:
Words of Wisdom:

The next time your child wants to play with you, say "YES." It's one of the best parts of being a parent, and one of the best things you can do for your child!

30% of Kindergarteners Don’t Have Recess!

Recess imageThe AAP believes recess plays a crucial role in schools and should be used as a complement to physical education classes―not a substitute. Whether it’s spent indoors or outdoors, recess should provide free, unstructured play, or activity.

Tip for Teachers: Recess should never be withheld as a punishment.

 Support Recess in Schools

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The information contained on this newsletter and on HealthyChildren.org should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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