The Psychology of Play: How Physical Activities Build Confidence in Kids

Educators and pediatric experts say active play—climbing, jumping, balancing, and other movement-rich challenges—does far more than entertain children. It supports social, emotional, and motor-skill development and helps build confidence that transfers to school, friendships, and everyday problem-solving. A recently reaffirmed clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) underscores that play strengthens brain architecture and executive function skills such as focus, self-control, and flexible thinking.

Why this matters now

Children’s activity levels remain stubbornly low. The 2024 U.S. Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth graded overall youth activity at D-, estimating only 20%–28% of 6- to 17-year-olds achieve the recommended daily hour of physical activity. The CDC recommends 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily for ages 6–17, ideally with a mix of aerobic activity plus muscle- and bone-strengthening movement, each week.

What the science says

The AAP’s clinical report, reaffirmed in January 2025, finds that play “enhances brain structure and function,” builds executive function, and promotes social-emotional learning, core ingredients of confidence and resilience. Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child similarly highlights how executive function skills (working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility) develop through active, goal-directed play and movement. Research summarized by the American Psychological Association notes that appropriately challenging, “risky” play (e.g., jumping from manageable heights, balancing) helps children calibrate risk, make decisions, and regulate emotions, key steps in developing self-confidence.

Local perspective

“Parents tell us they want activities that get kids moving together: obstacle courses, balance challenges, and interactive games,” says Justin Kenyon, owner of Sharky’s Events & Inflatables. “Our role is to provide safe, age-appropriate setups that encourage climbing, jumping, and balancing, so children experience success through movement and cooperation.”

School & program application

For schools and youth programs, aligning events and recess with the CDC’s daily activity guidance and the AAP’s play recommendations offers a practical way to promote confidence, peer connection, and self-regulation during the day. Structured but playful stations, balance beams, low-risk climbing elements, relay courses, map directly to motor-skill practice and social collaboration while meeting activity goals.

A broader educational priority

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that globally, more than 80% of adolescents are insufficiently physically active, a trend linked to higher risks of obesity, anxiety, and lower school performance. U.S. schools have increasingly turned to structured recess and active play programs as cost-effective interventions that support both academic achievement and mental health outcomes. Studies published in Pediatrics have found that children who engage in regular physical play demonstrate better classroom behavior and improved test scores, showing the link between movement and confidence extends into academics.

Long-term impact

The benefits of play extend well into adolescence and early adulthood. Research highlighted by the CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health shows that youth who participate in consistent physical activity are less likely to report symptoms of depression and more likely to describe themselves as confident in social settings. Experts note that creating regular opportunities for structured, active play isn’t just about childhood development; it’s about equipping the next generation with the resilience and self-esteem needed for long-term health and success.

Contact Information:

Sharky's Events

1935 Barber Rd
Sarasota, FL 34240
United States

Justin Kenyon
https://sharkysevents.com/