Tips for Joining Your Child in Play

Our children learn, explore, feel, and understand their worlds through play. Joining in our children’s play offers opportunities for connection and shared joy, but playing doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Need a few refreshers to boost your fun factor while engaging with your child in their favorite play routines? Here are a few tips:

• Unplug and limit distractions. Turn off the television and put away your phone so you can be in the moment with your child.

• Relax and stay curious about where the play will take you both. Make having fun your number one goal.

• Follow your child’s lead. Start by letting your child direct the play and validate themes that emerge.

• Let go of your agenda. We are so used to planning out our lives, but try to be spontaneous in your play.

• Stay engaged and use big affect. Draw your child into interactions and keep them there using facial expressions, body language, and gestures to amplify your play.

• Avoid instructing or directing. Instead of asking questions that you already know the answer to, ask open ended questions that support curiosity and imagination.

• Become the character in the play story. Use different voices and take on different personalities.

Need more support in connecting with your child through play? We’re here to help!