‘That’s Fun’ Makes Adult Play a Precedence

by Robyn Rohde

I’ve lengthy joked that if one thing wasn’t in my telephone calendar then it didn’t exist. Unfortunately, which means spontaneity, particularly round enjoyable, is commonly misplaced to the never-ending obligations of maturity. 

Starting in 2026, Ames Public Library helps by carving out a while for grownup enjoyable. On the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 pm, there shall be a special exercise for adults within the Auditorium in a collection referred to as, “That’s Fun!” Events vary from puzzle competitions and escape rooms to trivia nights and pun battles. Each month incorporates a totally different exercise, all with the objective of grownup enjoyable and connection.

Adult play is essential for an individual’s psychological, emotional, and bodily well-being. Research carried out by the National Institute for Play (NIFP) has proven as little as half-hour of play acts as a strong stress reliever, boosting creativity, enhancing cognitive operate, and strengthening relationships. It combats burnout and despair by shifting focus, growing happiness, and offering a way of accomplishment, making adults extra resilient and engaged.

NIFP Founder Dr. Stuart Brown states, “The opposite of play is not work — it’s depression. By prioritizing play, adults can lead more balanced, joyful, and meaningful lives.”

Not solely is grownup play essential for the person however for neighborhood as a complete. It helps us preserve our social well-being. And it isn’t simply board video games that do that, however puzzle leagues, or singing alongside to a tune in music bingo. There doesn’t must be any level to the exercise past having enjoyable and having fun with your self. Playing is how we join.

“What you begin to see when there’s major play deprivation in an otherwise competent adult is that they’re not much fun to be around,” Brown stated in a current interview with NPR. “You begin to see that the perseverance and joy in work is lessened and that life is much more laborious.”

In different phrases, all work and no play makes everybody a complete lot duller. So, be a part of different adults to maintain Story County enjoyable each second Wednesday at APL.

I’m placing it in my telephone calendar proper now.