Did you know that there is a National Institute for Play? I’m serious because this is important stuff! Children are spending less time than ever playing but it’s essential to their overall physical, emotional, social and emotional health! So as parents, we need to make the time and prioritize playing!
*Put it on your daily calendar. When you see play written down, you’ll most likely follow through and remember to give the kids time to play.
*Schedule short and long playtimes. 20 minutes is enough time to play on busy days but try to incorporate longer periods as well since more creativity and imagination need sustained time.
*Make it a habit. Schedule playtime as a family at the same time several days per week. Sunday after Church? Friday night board games?
*Create a go-to family favorite list to spark ideas. Write activities on popsicle sticks and place in a jar to be randomly picked.
*Simple is best! No fancy games or toys needed.
*Try not to intervene when they are bored! Figuring out what to do with free time is a skill!
*Make time for playing in the fresh air!
When parents fully realize the importance of play, it is easier to make it happen. Play develops creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, executive functioning, motor skills, social interactions, self-confidence, self-awareness, and fairness, to name just a few.
Next time your child wants to watch TV tell them to, “Go Play!”
nifplay.org
the Essentialist Family 