Play Play Play
The Role of Play in Our Health & Happiness
As we are adjusting to our new way of living and working due to COVID-19, it's important to lead a vibrant and healthy lifestyle that keeps us lifted up, engaged and active on all levels, even if we are spending the majority of our time at home. This is an excellent time to turn inward and into our family life, strengthening our connections within and without, and starting new healthy habits.
An essential healthy habit that is often underestimated and overlooked in home design is Play!
Photo - Helpguid.org
Play is not only crucial for a child's development, but it is also essential to boosting creativity, relieving stress, improving brain functions, and improving relationships and connections. Laughing together cultivates trust, compassion and intimacy. Yet, most of us don't include it in our daily life and consider it only for children. Play can take many forms. Each and every kind contributes to health and happiness. No matter what stage you are in life, whether you have children at home, and the age of your children, play benefits everyone, and age-appropriate games and toys should be available and easily accessible.
Most young children like to play where the adults are; allow them to play in every room and share their passion. Toys and games can be tucked away nicely. Credenzas, ottomans, baskets, benches... are all excellent pieces to store away toys and games when they're not being used.
Here are some simple tips for inviting play in different rooms of the home :
The living room
Arrange the furniture in a U shape. This is not only an inviting set up for gathering around and playing group games but also a good set up for intimacy and meaningful conversations.
Use a solid coffee table with storage, and that doesn't get scratched or damaged easily.
For sofas and armchairs, think low, comfortable and washable.
Place a thick and soft rug under the entire living room furniture and add floor cushions. Adults and children enjoy being on the floor.
Don't fill all the space with furniture; having empty space will allow room for physical play, rolling on the floor, rustling, dancing...
Have the option to create different moods for the living room by having different light sources: ceiling light, table lamps, art light...
Apply a colour scheme that energizes and relaxes, and don't forget to add plants. A good size indoor tree will bring much vibrancy.
roche bobois - Pali
IKEA - Stuva
The master bedroom
This is where the family often gathers and enjoys a playful Sunday morning.
A king bed is always a good idea as this is where the entire family will end up some mornings and nights playing or cuddling.
Dedicate an area in the closet for children's costumes. Place a large mirror if you can, and you will make a beautiful space for everyone to dress up, goof around and role play.
Have a variety of lighting to create different moods: general ceiling light with a dimmer switch, table lamps, art lamps, etc.
Dedicate a drawer or two in your night table or dresser for toys.
Casual dining room
Most families spend a lot of time around the table for meals and when friends come over for dinner, everyone stay around the table chatting after the me meal is over.
Avoid high tables, but instead, use standard height or a bit lower between 28 - 30". Choose a solid and warm surface.
Use height appropriate and comfortable chairs with low arms. This will extend those lovely gatherings you enjoy with family and friends after the meal, whether for conversations or games.
Have a chandelier or pendant lighting above the table and make sure you have ample lighting suitable for the different times of the day. Having a dimmer switch will allow different moods.
Place the table by a window looking out onto a beautiful scene or hang a large vibrant piece of art.
Photo - Harlequin wallpaper
The vibrant colours, natural light, beautiful view, solid wood table and upholstered chairs make a great casual dining room suitable for playing games and staying gathered for intimate conversions.
This feature wall in the foyer is a climbing wall for the entire family to enjoy.
Whether it's a climbing wall, a game room, a Foosball in a corner of the kitchen or simply games and toys secretly hidden in every room, keep play in mind next time you're remodelling or planning for your dream home. We all need more play in our lives, and there is no better time to start than right now!
Want to integrate more play into your home and life?