Sometimes it involves the entire family. At first, you might wonder why anyone would suggest play as a way to overcome children's problems. As children grow, their use of language becomes more sophisticated, but throughout childhood, they usually express much more of themselves in their play. We can understand our children better if we understand their play. Perhaps you've seen some of the nature programs on television which show animal babies playing with each other or with their mothers as they develop their hunting and survival skills.
Scientists generally agree that play fosters healthy development of young and adult animals alike.
This leads to greater strength, increased physical and mental skills, improved judgment, greater security, and stronger social bonds, characteristics that contribute to success as the animal grows. The same is true for human children and adults. I have always been impressed with the way that people use humor and playfulness to cope with some of the most difficult and oppressive situations. I've seen the same thing in medical environments where people are coping with serious illness. Humor and play help us get through tough times.