Washington - Children need plenty of time for free unstructured play if they are to develop physically, socially and emotionally, according to a report by the American Academy of Paediatrics.
The report found that in today's world of overstressed parents and overworked children, little time was left in many cases for good old-fashioned playtime.
"Despite the numerous benefits derived from play for both children and parents, time for free play has been markedly reduced for some children," the report said.
It said that all too often in the United States, parents are caught up in the race to have their children excel and strive to expose them to every opportunity to reach their potential.
Such efforts, however, could end up having the opposite effect with children becoming more anxious, stressed and even depressed, the report warned.
"Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength," it said. "Play is important to healthy brain development.
"It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them."
The report warned that less playtime at school to allow for more academics, and an abundance of after-school activities could have implications on children's cognitive abilities and their emotional stability.
The plethora of enrichment videos and computer programmes from early infancy also leads to children engaging in less physical play activities and could contribute to the obesity epidemic in the country, the report said.
"In contrast to passive entertainment, play builds active, healthy bodies," it said. "Perhaps above all, play is a simple joy that is a cherished part of childhood."