Research on the Importance of Play

Play is integral to the academic environment..."
"It ensures that the school setting attends to the social and emotional development of children as well as their cognitive development. It has been shown to help children adjust to the school setting and even to enhance children’s learning readiness, learning behaviors, and problem-solving skills."
Kenneth R. Ginsburg, MD, MSEd
Committee on Communications
Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health
American Academy of Pediatrics
The right of the child to education (Article 28), (Article 29) and to engage in play (Article 31)."
At Project: Play2Learn, we believe that play and education go hand in hand. The United Nations agrees, recognizing education and play as fundamental rights for all children. We are committed to promoting these rights through our products and services. Join us in providing children with the opportunity to play and learn.
United Nations (1989)
Convention on the Rights of the Child
Play is not frivolous: it enhances brain structure and function..." 
"and promotes executive function (ie, the process of learning, rather than the content), which allow us to pursue goals and ignore distractions. Moreover, play supports the formation of the safe, stable, and nurturing relationships with all caregivers that children need for healthy development. Card games, board games, and outdoor play that promote social interaction and rule following are examples of healthy play." 
Yogman, M., Garner, A.
Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health, and the Committee on Early Childhood, Adoption, and Dependent Care
"The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children"