Pressure on Kids Leaves Less Time to Play.

• Position: Brief Article

An overwhelming majority of parents believe play is critical to childhood development, but the pressure for performance in and out of school is driving play out of kids' lives. A survey by the American Toy Institute, New York, showed that parents have mixed emotions about the role of play in their children's lives.

The overwhelming majority (91%) believe it is important to the overall well-being of their offspring. In fact, 43% said their own opportunities for play contributed to their success as adults. Forty-seven percent strongly believe the educational system places too much emphasis on grades, and 44% feel it has become too competitive.

Paradoxically, 72% think it is very important for their children to start academic learning early, and 66% strongly believe that it is vital for their children to do well academically. Fifty-three percent indicate that their kids must do well in school to have a successful life. As for school, 54% believe there is already enough playtime in the academic setting.

In interviews with groups of teachers, most said parents lacked understanding of the importance of play and...