Overview
In last month’s Play Note we explained how the personality trait of Playfulness is with us all the time (and can be grown); our Play Note this month summarizes research showing that expressing the playful aspects of your personality in romantic relationships can deepen those relationships. We Profile a gathering of educators committed to play. News includes an interview with Dr. Brown and research on toys. Prior issues of Play Times.
Play Note: Playfulness and Relationships
Laughter, teasing, and spontaneous fun aren’t just cute behaviors—they’re powerful tools for building a stronger relationship. Research shows that playful couples communicate better and enjoy deeper intimacy. Playfulness can foster trust, soften conflicts, and keep the spark alive. Best of all, anyone can cultivate it. If you want to strengthen your relationships, be more playful.
Profile: Playposium
This month we’re profiling an event: Playposium, an engaging gathering of professionals working to infuse play into learning. Playposium is part workshop, part retreat, and overall an engaging, invigorating experience. You can see in this photo of Playposium 2024 that even plenary sessions are very interactive. Playposium 2025 will be four days and three nights together in a camp environment –many opportunities for connecting and sharing with peers and colleagues. More on Playposium 2025
Play News and Updates
Interview with Dr. Brown
In this first of a three-part video series, NIFP Founder Dr. Stuart Brown and President Tom Norquist explore why play is a vital part of a healthy, engaged life. They touch on everything from neuroscience and rat behavior to adult resilience and longevity, and also explore the connection between play, sleep, and dreams. Their thoughtful exchange—grounded in mutual respect and years of shared passion—makes complex ideas accessible and relevant. It’s a thoughtful look at why play matters more than ever. Parts 2 and 3 coming in May and June.
Play – Fuel for Innovation
Brendan Boyle, NIFP Board Member, toy inventor, Stanford educator, and founder of IDEO’s Play Lab, shares why play is far more than fun—it’s fuel for innovation. In this energetic and insightful post, Boyle makes the case that play is a mindset that belongs in classrooms, boardrooms, and everywhere creativity is needed. From Stanford d.school lessons to stories of design wins (and flops), he reminds us that joy, curiosity, and experimentation are the real drivers of breakthrough thinking.
The Shape of Play – Mattel Toy Study
Mattel’s “The Shape of Play” study was released on April 14 in celebration of the company’s 80th anniversary. This comprehensive global research involved over 33,000 participants from seven countries, highlighting the essential role of play in promoting health, happiness, and social connection across all age groups. Key findings reveal that 94% of respondents believe play is essential at all ages, not just for children. Additionally, 87% agree that play reduces loneliness and isolation, while 85% view it as integral to daily life. Overall, the research emphasizes that play is a fundamental human need, vital for fostering joy, connection, and resilience throughout life. Dr. Bowen White, a board member of the institute’s spoke with CBS Saturday Morning about the study.
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Current Issues of Play Journals
- American Journal of Play – 2024 Issues 2&3
- International Journal of Play – 2024 Issue 4
- Int’l Journal of Play Therapy – 2025 Issue 1
- Journal of Play in Adulthood – 2024 Issue 1
- International Journal of Playwork Pract
