Play is the language of children. It is a simple joy that is a cherished part of childhood. Children learn everything through play. It is essential to their development because it contributes to their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being.
If parents want to connect with children, there is no better choice than engaging with them in play. It enriches the parent-child interaction. Despite all the benefits, in modern times, children are getting reduced time to play. As supporters of our children’s well-being, parents should ensure that free play becomes a healthy and essential part of childhood.
Here are some points to consider for parents to encourage rich playtime experiences with the children and strengthen their connection:
How not to play: Parents these days somehow feel play should be a ‘teaching opportunity’ (typically, parents ask children about the colour of the block or the number of wheels in the truck and often engage in learning than natural play). When adults control play, children may reluctantly follow it, but children end up losing real benefits of play particularly in developing creativity, leadership, and social skills. You can lecture all you want, but the real learning happens when children have unstructured natural playtime. No matter how much information you pour into children, for them to absorb & integrate the knowledge they need to play, rest & sleep.
How to play: Every parent has an “expert” in play living under their roof. Each child is born as a play expert. All a parent needs to do is to follow the child’s lead. Let children be completely in charge of their play. Also, letting them win builds their confidence. They will anyway learn about the balance of losing & winning from their peers. When they engage in play with friends & peers, unstructured play is the best form of play. It helps them develop creativity, leadership & social skills.
Play & Connection: Play is the ultimate tool of connection for parents. Scheduling special one on one time with your child where they get your undivided attention strengthens your connection with the child. This also gives you an opportunity to gain insight into their world. Remember the importance of connection & don’t dictate what it’s going to look like. Every child connects & plays differently. Let children dictate what’s it looks like. Even if it’s boring for you, you play it because that strengthens your connection.
Risk-taking in play: Children need to take risks. Let them take the risk (with some protection from you where needed). When children are in charge of their environment, they learn to own their risk & make it much less dangerous for themselves.
Behavioral Challenges & Play: Whether your child is not doing homework, following boundaries, or struggling with other challenges, the child-directed play could be very helpful. For instance, they can release frustration around homework by throwing pillows/punching a bag, etc. Once the emotion is released, they will be more open to doing the task at hand. Any fun play-break can make challenges that children face much more tolerable. If they have any big worries that bother them, you can play a game that emphasizes on ‘taking one step at a time’ followed by a dance/song /artwork/story that the child enjoys. Taking smaller steps with an element of natural play might make the big fear/worry more manageable for them.
Every child deserves the opportunity to develop to their unique potential. Play is crucial for children to develop their potential. No matter what the child might look like, they want to connect & have the need to connect with parents. Play offers parents a wonderful opportunity to engage fully with their children and deeply connect with them. As parents and supporters of their well-being, we must ensure that play is prioritized in families which in the long run will help children thrive. Play is an excellent way to deepen bonds between children and parents.
(Edited by Juhi Ramaiya)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Comments