The power of play and how to bring it home

The playground may be closed with no free-roaming allowed, but small acts of play can still be achieved and are important for health and wellbeing.
a child playing with coloured paper in the dark

‘Mum, Dad, I’m bored….!’ A favourite complaint you might be hearing more often if you’re currently stuck at home. Yes, lockdowns can feel dull, stressful and downright boring. But harnessing the power of play can be a powerful way to boost your mood and maintain wellbeing in tough times.

‘You might notice that your COVID brain is foggy or rigid. But having a sense of play gives you permission to be motivated by different cues that already exist within your current reality, and these cues are usually more curious, pleasant and creative than what is otherwise on your mind.’  

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ArtsHub's Arts Feature Writer Jo Pickup is based in Perth. An arts writer and manager, she has worked as a journalist and broadcaster for media such as the ABC, RTRFM and The West Australian newspaper, contributing media content and commentary on art, culture and design. She has also worked for arts organisations such as Fremantle Arts Centre, STRUT dance, and the Aboriginal Arts Centre Hub of WA, as well as being a sessional arts lecturer at The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).