As Canada continues to deal with effects of Covid-19, concerns over the critical importance of the early years and the impacts on kids are growing. In this episode you’ll hear from researchers specializing in children’s mental health and development, each who will share unique insights on the status of children and family’s mental health throughout the pandemic. Specifically, you’ll learn about a growing area of research that is proving to be a critical support for children and youth during this difficult time: the power of play. 

Find our transcript here: https://researchns.ca/beyondresearch-the-power-of-play/ 

In Season 2, Episode 3 – The Power of Play, we cover: 

2:38 – Impact of COVID-19 on youth and children’s mental health and well-being

6:07 – Benefit of social interactions for mental, emotional, social, and physical health

08:22 – Supporting kids considered at risk or in vulnerable circumstances

10:34 – Continued research in early childhood development and mental health is critical

13:02 – What is physical literacy and why is it important?

16:16 – Play deprivation and it’s impact

18:38 – Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on kids and their physical activity

19:55 – Loose parts play

Thank you to our guests:

 Dr. Alexa Bagnell is the Chief of Psychiatry at the IWK Health Centre, a pediatric hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a Professor of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University.

Dr. Michelle Stone is an Assistant Professor of Kinesiology in the School of Health and Human Performance at Dalhousie University, and lead researcher for Play Outside Nova Scotia.

The Beyond Research Podcast is produced by Podstarter. It is available wherever you get your podcasts. 

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