The Canadian Pediatric Society says a little risk in children’s play can be beneficial for their health and development.
The national body has published a new ‘policy paper’ which encourages children to engage in ‘outdoor free play’, and in particular ‘risky play’.
The Canadian Pediatric Society says this type of “risky play” varies by child, but is generally defined as an “exciting and stimulating form of free play” whose “outcome is uncertain” and which involves, yes, ” a possibility of physical injury.”
Examples include games at height or high speed, supervised activities involving shocks or tools like hammers, ropes and knives, or games even involving a risk of “disappearing from sight or getting lost.” .
Although it can be scary for parents to allow risks into their little ones’ lives, the Pediatric Society says this type of play is essential for children’s mental, social and physical development.
But the organization obviously cautions that this does not mean ignoring basic safety rules. So, children should not be left unattended in dangerous areas or pushed beyond their own comfort level.
It is up to adults to be aware of the risks and to intervene if the potential harm is more serious than the child is able to recognize and manage, the organization specifies.
“We must ensure the necessary safety of children during play, but not keep them safe at all costs,” summarizes Dr. Émilie Beaulieu, a pediatrician from Quebec and author of these new guidelines from the Canadian Pediatric Society, in a press release.