What do scientific experts say is the most beneficial type of 'play'?

Answer 1

The recommended type of play depends on the age of the child, as different age groups are in a different stage of development. The general consensus is that play should be both physical and mental and support development in these areas.

Infants are concentrating on developing large motor skills and not fine motor skills. To help strengthen long muscles and provide the reinforcement of neural pathways, holding an infant's feet and making "bicycling" motions becomes a delightful game. They need cognitive reinforcement of the constant presence of a caregiver to fulfill their needs, hence the age-old game of peek-a-boo that develops into hide-and-seek as they mature into a toddler.

Walking is controlled falling, so, as our infant moves into this phase transferring the the aforementioned "bicycling" game to an upright position, supporting the body weight under the arms, allowing the infant to bear some weight and independently make the motions is a great way to play.

Using music while playing helps to integrate physical motions that are controlled in the "left brain" with the "right brain" that deals with abstract thought and creativity.

These patterns continue well through adolescence into adulthood.

Even the Video Games of the teenager are ways to improve response time and cognitive ability.

Play should never be forgotten even when the infant becomes the adult. Stressors, even good ones, can effect the continued development of the brain. Chemical are released into the system and their toxic effects can be minimalized by play and pleasurable activities.