Seven (7) Benefits of Risky Play in Therapy

At Able Kids Therapy, we understand the importance of creating an environment where children can build confidence and develop problem-solving skills. One effective approach we use is incorporating risky play into our occupational therapy and speech pathology sessions. Risky play involves activities that challenge children to push their physical limits and test their boundaries, such as swinging, jumping, slam dunks, running and climbing. While the term “risky play” might sound daunting, it offers numerous benefits that are essential for a child’s development. 

1. Building Confidence and Resilience

Risky play helps children build confidence by allowing them to face challenges and overcome obstacles. When a child successfully navigates a tricky climb or lands a big jump, they gain a sense of achievement that boosts their self-esteem. This confidence is crucial for their overall development, as it encourages them to take on new challenges both in and out of therapy. 

2. Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills

Through risky play in allied health therapy, children learn to assess situations, make decisions and solve problems on the go. For example, when climbing, they must figure out where to place their hands and feet to maintain balance. These problem-solving experiences are invaluable, as they translate to everyday situations where children must think critically and make informed choices. 

3. Developing Gross Motor Skills

Risky play is a fantastic way to develop and refine gross motor skills. Activities like swinging, jumping and running require coordination, balance and strength. As children engage in these physical activities, they enhance their muscle control and body awareness, which are essential for their physical development. 

4. Understanding and Managing Risk

One of the key benefits of risky play is that it teaches children how to understand and manage risk. By experiencing controlled risk in a safe environment, such as occupational therapy or speech pathology appointments, children learn to gauge their limits and make safer choices in real-life situations. This skill is particularly important as it helps them avoid dangerous situations and respond appropriately when faced with potential hazards. 

5. Encouraging Persistence and Perseverance

Risky play often involves trial and error, which can be frustrating for children. However, it also provides an excellent opportunity for them to learn persistence and perseverance. Encouraging words like “You can do it,” “Let’s try something new,” and “Would you like to have another go?” motivate children to keep trying despite setbacks. This resilience is a valuable life skill that will benefit them in all areas of life. 

6. Creating a Safe Environment for Risky Play

While no play space is completely risk-free, at Able Kids Therapy, we take measures to ensure our therapy gym spaces are as safe as possible. We use cushions and gym mats to create a soft landing area, minimising the risk of injury. Our therapists are always present, closely monitoring the children and providing guidance to ensure their well-being throughout the session. 

7. Positive Support and Encouragement

Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of our approach to risky play. By offering supportive and encouraging words, we help children feel confident and motivated to take on new challenges. This positive support fosters a trusting relationship between the child and therapist, making the therapy sessions more effective and enjoyable. 

In Conclusion: 

Risky play in therapy has numerous advantages, from building confidence and resilience to enhancing problem-solving skills and developing gross motor abilities. At Able Kids Therapy, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment with early intervention therapy where children can engage in risky play and reap its many benefits. By encouraging children to push their limits and explore their capabilities, we help them grow into confident, capable individuals ready to tackle the world.