Doctors Say Play is More Than Just Fun and Games

"Play experts" urge parents to recognize the importance of healthy
play
BELLEVUE, Wash.--(Business Wire)--
What was once considered child's play is now a key factor in
healthy child development. Board games and interactive play are
considered essential in leading a balanced life, according to a
clinical report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

And Chief Funster and co-founder of SimplyFun, Gail DeGiulio says
the importance of healthy play goes beyond just fun - it's imperative
to be included in daily routines. According to the 2007 AAP report,
"Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their
imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive and emotional
strength."

Today, video games and digital entertainment compete with
traditional forms of play, such as board games, puzzles, and
imaginative toys. According to DeGiulio, face-to-face, real
interaction between family and friends through traditional tabletop
games reinforces life's most important lessons.

"When you play a board game, conversations naturally take place
while a child's communication skills are being developed. For parents,
there is nothing that can replace those special teaching moments,"
DeGiulio said.

Healthy play is not just vital for kids. Play is for families and
adults as well, DeGiulio says. "Families that play together, stay
together - that's our belief. There is irreplaceable bonding, positive
interaction, and life lessons taking place during play. Children can
learn family values, and a family's identity can be discovered through
play. For adults, play brings much-needed balance and down time, while
deepening social relationships."

SimplyFun's mission is to "promote the importance of play and
create lifelong memories that enhance the quality of life for its
consultants, customers and employees." The company focuses on a series
of guiding principles that include: healthy play at all ages must be
fun, promote face-to-face interaction, foster social skills and other
important learning, and the play experience must be enjoyable over and
over again. In short, play should enhance the experience of living.

For more information on the importance of play and SimplyFun,
please visit www.simplyfun.com. For more information on the American
Academy of Pediatrics and their report titled "The Importance of Play
in Promoting Healthy Child Development," please visit
www.aap.org/pressroom/play-public.htm.

SimplyFun
Matt Molen, 877-557-7767
Vice President of Marketing
mmolen@simplyfun.com

Copyright Business Wire 2008