6. Involve other children. While your toddler may simply play alongside a friend at first, barely noticing the other child, as he grows and develops, his play will become more interactive. Providing opportunities for even the youngest child to be around other children will lay the foundation for future friendships, socialization, and fun. Start out by inviting another mom and child over for an hour and before you know it, you’ll be attending weekly playdates and outings with a close circle of mom and child friends.
7. Allow time for independent play. Give your child the chance to plan and play at his own pace. When children are provided the opportunity to play alone, they can tap into their imaginations. Playing solo means your child can be who he wants to be, test out new skills and take on new challenges. During independent play your child has the chance to build his emotional and social skills and develop his imagination—which may also spur the birth of his first imaginary friend!
8. Vary your play environments. Change up your child’s play space. Give your child access to the lower kitchen cabinets where the pots and pans are stored and she’ll become the star of a one man band. Let your child explore the great outdoors and she’ll create his own land of make believe where she’s the king of her backyard castle. Turn a doorway into a puppet theatre with a tension rod and curtain and rotate toys for fresh opportunities for fun.
9. Play rough. Rough and tumble play is often taboo because of fears related to the possibility of injury, but the benefits and fun of it are often overlooked. When children wrestle, play chase and even pretend fight, they are developing essential social and emotional skills, like self-control, boundaries and even compassion. It can build self-confidence and even facilitate bonding, especially among boys. And for parents who wonder how you can tell the difference between aggression and rough play? Rough play is typically accompanied by loads of laughter and each person getting a chance to be the aggressor.
10. Be a playful parent. Jump in puddles on a rainy day. Climb that old tree in the backyard. Sing like no one is listening and dance like no one is watching. These are the signs of a playful parent and guess what? Playful parents breed playful kids. Show your child that you know how to have fun and chances are, he’ll be having fun right behind you.
