Why is it that I used to love to play with kids before I had them? As a teenager I could not wait to babysit and, as an adult, I dedicated my career to “playing with children”. When I would go to a party and there was a baby or a young child I would adopt the role as the designated babysitter.
Here I am now a mother of two amazing children entering the New Year. They are 6 and 7 years old. How is it that I never seem to play with my own kids anymore? Now that they are getting older and they have school, activities, homework, play dates, TV shows, etc. I feel like I am always rushing from here to there and trying to get work, housework, and errands done. I seem to be too busy managing all of our lives. Where did the play go? Is it still important? And, how do I get all of that time back?
The answer yes! It is still important. Why? Because, as Jean Piaget says -“Play is a Child’s Work”.
Children need time to play because it fosters their curiosity, and creativity. It allows a child to try on different roles in a safe place. Play is a time when children have opportunities to reinforce things that they have learned such as counting, waiting turns, etc.
There is no argument about the importance of childhood play, but what about child and adult play? Children need time to play with their parents or significant caregivers. Children long to have attention and a relationship with their caregivers. Play is a perfect way to help enhance this experience.
This type of engagement with a child helps a child to feel loved, appreciated, wanted, and important.
Playing with your children also helps a child to better learn their skills in problem solving, patience, social skills, etc. Having adult guidance while trying to navigate society’s rules while playing can be extremely helpful to a child.
There is no such thing as “just playing”. Play means learning, bonding, coping, processing, and so much more. So, I know I am going to move into this new year with determination and dedication to play more with my children. I challenge you to do the same!
Here are 5 tips for playing with your kids:
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Jump into their pretend world. Let them guide the play and follow along. They need a chance to be the one who chooses, and decides things.
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Do not create an agenda of what will take place during your play time. Be flexible and let natural progressions take place.
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When you’re feeling bored and stuck in the child’s play, see if you can find a way to integrate your interests into the play so you’re not so bored without derailing it to your own agenda.
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Do not feel silly but be silly! Your children will see you as fun, not awkward (although you might be feeling that way). Enjoy your play!
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Remember that your child is not going to remember if the dishes were done, or if laundry was put away. They will, however, remember the good times they spent with you.