Outside/In Why do animals play?
Feb 27, 2025
Join Lindsay Patterson, co-host of the science podcast Tumble, as she dives into the fascinating world of animal play! Discover how playful behaviors extend beyond familiar pets like dogs and cats to include unexpected creatures like rats and bumblebees. Lindsay outlines a five-part checklist that scientists use to identify play across species. Plus, learn why turn-taking is essential for cognitive development. This entertaining discussion reveals the critical role of play in social connections and evolutionary importance across the animal kingdom.
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Universal "Floor is Lava" Game
- The game "The Floor is Lava" is played in many countries under different names and variations.
- Kids everywhere experience a fun panic pretending the floor is dangerous, showing play's universal nature.
Five-Point Play Checklist
- Scientists use a five-point checklist to define and recognize play across species.
- This checklist includes being non-functional, voluntary, unserious, repetitive with variation, and safe.
Play Beyond Brain Size and Environment
- Play behavior appears in both large-brained and small-brained animals like rats and bumblebees.
- Some animals play more when in safe environments, like octopuses in aquariums.