Is the obsession with structured play going too far?
Tell us below in reader comments Some families believe they can help boost their children’s brain power with the latest electronic toys or by enrolling them in sport and after-school clubs. This is despite the fact they have often been told what games to play in school sports lessons and sometimes even in the playground. But a report, compiled by Peter Smith, professor of psychology at Goldsmiths College, University of London, and nutritionist Rachel Biggins, warns that children need more free-time to develop their own ways of playing. The report, The Trouble With 21st Century Kids, says: ‘Some structuring of play can be helpful now and then to get children going or help children who have difficulty playing. But this should not go too far. ‘Regimented play activities can have negative consequences on the social and emotional development of a child because they are too organised and take away a child’s initiative and freedom of choice. ‘In contrast, freeform play encourages the creative
