In early childhood, which of the following has been shown to have a positive connection...

Within the CFRP framework, supporting health and wellness includes promoting interventions that enhance mental health across developmental stages. Research highlighted in the CFRP study guide indicates that play in early childhood is strongly associated with positive adolescent mental health outcomes, as it reduces cortisol levels and anxiety by fostering emotional regulation and social skills. The guide states, “Play in early childhood has been shown to lower cortisol levels and anxiety, contributing to improved mental health in adolescence.” While massage (option A), dietary support (option B), and physical exertion (option C) may have health benefits, play is uniquely effective in this context due to its role in developmental and emotional growth.

CFRP Study Guide (Section on Supporting Health and Wellness): “Play in early childhood is a critical intervention that lowers cortisol levels and anxiety, promoting resilience and positive mental health outcomes in adolescence.”