Differences in developmental outcomes by type of play for school-aged children

The objective of this study was to examine the phenomenon of children's play in South Korea with the aim of promoting the right to play for Korean children who spend excessive time in private educational settings. The study sought to ascertain how children's play is categorized and the developmental outcomes associated with each type. Responses from 549 children aged 10 to 12, collected in Save the Children Korea's Children's Playground Utilization Survey (2019) were analysed. results revealed four types of play types among South Korean children: a ‘play-deficient type,’ which is characterized by a lack of all kinds of play; a ‘digital-centered type,’ which is defined by a high level of digital play but a lack of other kinds of play; a ‘diverse-oriented type,’ which is distinguished by a balanced approach to all forms of play; and ‘relational/physical-oriented type,’ which is associated with a high level of physical and interactive play. The analysis showed that the ‘play-deficient’ and ‘digital-centered’ types were linked to poorer peer relationships, lower self-esteem and life satisfaction, and higher academic stress. Based on the findings, the study offers tailored recommendations for each play type to support the right to play in South Korea.