Uncategorized
Dr. Sarah Rasmi, Family Psychologist and Parenting Expert at Play:DateThe alarming rise in ‘digiculture’ has taken over the lives of little ones, some as young as two years old. Easily accessible games, videos and online content are now available at the touch of little fingertips, and this has produced a significant decline in real-time interaction and play between children.
Nevertheless, technological and social applications can still help young children bridge the gap between online and real-time play by introducing them to the world around them and helping them form lasting friendships.
Leading psychologists, including Dr. Sarah Rasmi who is the Family Psychologist and Parenting Expert at social application Play:Date, strongly recommend playdates for children and their parents. Dr. Sarah highlights five key benefits of this kind of social interaction.
Psychological Well-being
Playdates can lead to friendships, which are good for our psychological health. Research shows that people with extensive social networks tend to be happier.
Physical Health
Playdates can solidify our interpersonal connections. People with strong social bonds tend to have better immune systems and live longer too. Playdates also encourage us to be physically active which is good for our physical and psychological health.
Education and Work
Playdates give us an opportunity to bond with others, which fosters social connections. People with strong social networks are happier, and happier people are more successful at school and work.
Social Skills
Playdates facilitate social development by teaching children how to share, cooperate with others, and problem-solve.
Creating Parent Connections
Playdates are an opportunity for parents to connect with other parents. This has a number of benefits, including a sense of community and social support. Both of these factors can make it easier for parents to adjust to life changes, including having children and moving to the UAE.