Why Play Matters at EVERY Age and for EVERY Brain

We just wrapped up another joyful session of Camp WE:PLAY, our play-based summer program for young neurodivergent children—and once again, we were reminded of something we already knew to be true: play is powerful.

Camp WE:PLAY is built on the idea that children learn best when they feel safe, connected, and free to explore at their own pace. Over the past few weeks, we watched campers grow in confidence, communication, and connection—all through games, sensory exploration, and pretend play. It inspired us to reflect on a question we sometimes hear from caregivers and professionals:

Is there a point where play stops being important? Shouldn’t kids eventually “grow out of it”?

The short answer? No. But play evolves—just like children do.

Dr. Gabriel Gonzalez, one of our extraordinary OTs plays dres--up with our WE:PLAY campers.

🧠 Play Supports Social-Emotional Development

Play is one of the most powerful ways children build the skills they need to thrive. Through play, kids practice:

• Regulating emotions

• Understanding others’ perspectives

• Building and maintaining friendships

• Solving problems and building confidence

  
  

For neurodivergent learners, play can serve as a gentle and motivating pathway into connection and communication. When adults follow the child’s lead, provide supportive routines, and create sensory-safe environments, play becomes a bridge—not a barrier—to meaningful learning.

A dedicated student clinician helps a camper with an art project involving dinosaurs and paint.

🧸 Play Looks Different for Every Child

Not every child engages in pretend play or group games—and that’s okay. Autistic and other neurodivergent children may prefer sensory activities, building projects, or parallel play. What matters is that their interests are honored and supported.

Play becomes especially powerful when it’s:

• Child-led and interest-driven

• Adapted to meet sensory and emotional needs

• Free from pressure to perform or “do it right”

• Used to connect, not correct

  
  

Structured, responsive play meets kids where they are—and helps them grow from there.

A dedicated student clinician uses large blocks to help connect with a smiling camper.

🔃So ... When Do We Stop Using Play-Based Learning?

WE DON'T!

Here’s how play shifts across development:

• Early Childhood: Play is how children learn everything—language, empathy, cause and effect, motor skills, and more.

• Elementary Years: Play becomes more structured or imaginative (games, storytelling, building), but remains essential for connection and confidence.

• Tweens and Teens: Play may take the form of drama, sports, gaming, music, or creative projects. It supports identity-building, emotional resilience, and social exploration.

• Adulthood: Play becomes hobbies, humor, interests, and creativity. It relieves stress and strengthens relationships.

  
  

For neurodivergent people, play often remains a key way to learn and connect throughout life.

Our fabulous LCSW, Anna Paola Smith, experiences her own burst of playful learning with Douglas the Pig during a camp visit from Calvary Farms.

✅ Keep Play Meaningful at Every Stage

Instead of asking “When should we stop?”, let’s ask:“How can we keep play meaningful?”

That might look like:

• Letting a teen’s special interest guide learning goals

• Turning life skills practice into a game

• Using collaborative storytelling to build connection

• Offering flexible, low-pressure ways to socialize

  
  

At ACN, programs like Camp WE:PLAY are designed around this belief—that play is powerful, and that every child deserves learning experiences rooted in joy, relationship, and respect.

A camper, dressed like a scientist, explores at a science-themed sensory station.

Want to learn more about how play supports neurodivergent learners?

Check out our programs or contact our team to find out how we use play every day to empower children and families.