Why is it important to play?

Playing outside is fun and good for you! You can do all sorts of things at the park or playground. You might take a ride down the slide. Or, you might swing across the monkey bars.

When you play, you use your body a lot. This can help you stay healthy and fit. You can get exercise when you run from one end of the playground to the other. Or, you can build up your muscles when you climb up the rock wall.   

Playing can make you smart, too! When you play a game of make-believe, you build your imagination and creativity. At the park, you learn to identify different plants and leaves in nature.

You probably see a lot of other kids at the playground. Maybe you take turns using the swing or play a game together. In the sandbox, you might share a shovel with someone. When you play, you can make friends and learn how to get along better with others.