Occupational therapy: How this relates to structured and unstructured play

Through out this blog the importance of equilibrium of both structured and unstructured play is desired to provide an optimal amount of both benefits that can positively contribute to a child’s development. From an occupational therapist perspective there are a number of ways to achieve this for example:

1. Facilitate opportunities for children to achieve a balance of structured and unstructured play, and remove or overcome barriers.

2.Education to others (e.g. parents/care givers or teachers and teacher aids), of the importance, advantages/disadvantages and potential impacts of structured and unstructured play.

3.Apply more of a non-directive play therapy approach, maintaining client centeredness by working on interests to increase motivation and participation.