Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, a learning disability, or simply learns differently, one of the most powerful tools you can give them isn’t found in a textbook or on a screen… it’s PLAY.
At Rockwood Prep, we see firsthand how meaningful, screen-free play transforms the way our students think, process, and grow. Here’s why playtime is so vital for neurodivergent children, and why it’s more important than ever to protect it.
Play Builds the Brain
Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) confirms that play is not just fun, it’s fundamental to brain development. During unstructured play, children build critical skills like:
- Executivefunction (planning, organizing, and flexible thinking)
- Self-regulation (managing emotions and impulses)
- Working memory
- Social-emotional connection and empathy
By comparison, these are the same areas where many learning-divergent children struggle. Through regular, imaginative play, children have a chance to strengthen these abilities naturally without pressure, expectations, tests, or deadlines.
FACT: A 2018 AAP clinical report tells us that play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength.
For Neurodivergent Learners, Play Can Be a Gateway to Learning
Children with autism, ADHD, or learning differences often learn best through movement, hands-on exploration, and visual experiences all of which are core elements of play.
Four benefits of regularly scheduled playtime include:
- Improved attention spans after outdoor or sensory play
- Better communication skills through imaginative group play
- Increased confidence in problem-solving during creative games
- Lower anxiety when kids are given time for free, unstructured play
Even something as simple as a 20-minute break for playtime can dramatically improve a child’s ability to focus, listen, and learn.
Screen Time Is Not Play Time
While we can accept that screens are a big part of modern life especially for neurodivergent children, who may gravitate to devices for comfort or stimulation, but screen time and playtime are not the same, and one cannot replace the other.
Too much screen time has been linked to decreased social skills, shorter attention spans, lower academic performance, and increased sleep problems and irritability
TIP: Active, social play helps balance the nervous system and creates opportunities for real-world problem-solving and connection.
According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), children aged 8–12 spend an average of 4–6 hours a day on screens, while teens average 7+ hours.
How to Encourage More Play at Home
Listed below are some practical, screen-free playtime ideas that support neurodivergent learners:
- Sensory bins with rice, beans, or kinetic sand
- Dress-up and pretend play to build imagination
- Building with Legos or blocks to support spatial learning
- Outdoor play like swinging, jumping, or water play
- Board games that teach turn-taking, planning, and flexibility
- Art and crafts to enhance creativity and fine motor skills
Remember: play doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. Even 30 minutes a day of child-led, unplugged play makes a big difference.
At our Arizona-based private school for children with autism, ADHD, and learning differences, we include play into our academic model. From movement breaks to sensory stations to structured play therapy, we ensure that every child has opportunities to learn in the way their brain was built to learn.
Ready to see how a play-based, personalized approach can transform your child’s education?
Contact us today to schedule a tour or speak with an admissions specialist. Let’s build a better learning path together.
