Benefits of playing in the dark

Child playing in a snow fort in the dark.

Our Wild Child program often shares the benefits of risky play and encourages things like climbing, rolling, getting messy, and moving fast. But did you know playing in the dark is also a fun form of risky play?

Most children find the dark just a little bit scary or uncomfortable, but it also can be mysterious and exciting. Things that feel completely familiar in the daylight, seem otherworldly and thrilling in the moonlight. Play lets you deliberately experience those feelings of uncertainty and risk in controlled ways.

For example, as you find that perfect hiding spot in the dark, you can feel the excitement build — will I be found? what’s that noise? Then after waiting, you’re found and with it you experience relief and laugh together as that tension releases.

Over time, building that sense of comfort in the dark, piece by piece, opens up a whole world of other experiences and fun, but it also builds those valuable skills for managing uncomfortable feelings and understanding the difference between thrilling and dangerous.

If you’re looking for some fun ideas to get you started, there are many resources available to inspire your after dark play. Here are a few to get you started:

Active for life: 13 Fun activities to play in the dark

Parent map: 10 ideas for playing outside in the dark

National Geographic: Scary fun: Why kids should play in the dark

Written by Tandy Morton, Wild child Playgroup Facilitator