Play is a purposeful enjoyable activity, not "just fun". In the context of group process, play varies from unstructured to very structured (games). It can have enormous value -- it is the way in which many people learn best --and it can produce social skill-building, creativity, exercise, and memorable experiences.

Laughter accesses a part of ourselves, deepens interaction with others and increases self-awareness. When the facilitator is having fun too it is contagious and exemplary.

Play often frees the group from inhibitions, bonds the group, levels the power dynamic (democratization), and lightens and depersonalizes what might otherwise be tense situations.

Play can entail role playing. Games are a more formalized form of play.

Cautions and Caveats:

• Trust is prerequisite
• The group needs to believe this is a good use of their time
• The activity needs to be relevant to the purpose of the group process (and also needs a debrief to articulate and reaffirm this)
• There needs to be a teachable moment and/or relationship-building outcome
• Beware of the influence of alcohol on games/play activities -- too much lack of inhibition can be a liability or personal safety issue
• Some people will be inhibited or embarrassed by play, so you need to be alert to make sure this doesn't occur