How to encourage independent play

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Your children are learning how to take care of themselves with each passing day. In this process, they will most likely be at risk of becoming too dependent on you when it comes to playing.

Thankfully, there are many things you can do to intervene and help them learn how to play independently. These five simple things will turn your child into a more independent and more creative person from the get-go.

While Bash naps, I’m happily letting Victoria enjoy her independent play because I may have stayed up until 2 am binge watching Catastrophe on Amazon Prime last night 🤷🏻‍♀️ And it probably wasn’t the best decision considering Bash was up from 4-5 am 🤦🏻‍♀️ But oh the laughs! If you haven’t seen it, check it out! Three seasons to binge watch! 🙌🏼 #mamaneedsanap . . . . . #victoriaelena #threeyearsold #rainbowbaby #kidsofig #ig_childhood #cutekidsofinstagram #instagood #thatsdarling #darlingmovement #letthekids #letthembelittle #candidchildhood #independentplay #imaginationatwork #tiredmama #amazon #amazonprimevideo #catastrophe #bingewatching #hilarioustv #shouldhavesleptmore #thestruggleisreal #ig_motherhood #uniteinmotherhood #sahmlife #adayinthelife #momswithcameras #momtog #raisingmytinyhumans

A post shared by Courtney Menendez (@silver_pearl) on

Turn off the TV

Children have a hard time learning to play by themselves due to the constant presence of the TV. Change that and independence will ensue.

Play with your kids

If you play with your child, he or she will learn by mimicking. When they see enough, they will want some time for themselves to play.

Don’t overburden them with extracurricular activities

Every child needs freedom in their schedule and yours is no exception. They want to plan their own schedule, and you should allow them to.

Ignore boredom

When your child is bored, make them solve their boredom by themselves. It will help independence massively.

Shower them with praise

Praise your kids for their independence. This is a big motivating factor they can sure use at this young age.