If you want a strong healthy relationship with your child then play with them. In today’s fast-paced world, many parents find themselves caught in the whirlwind of responsibilities, often sidelining playtime with their children.
Yet, numerous studies emphasize the unparalleled value of play, not just for children but for the parents too. Here are inventive ways to weave play into our hectic daily lives, ensuring it’s not just about quantity but the quality of moments we share with our children.
The Value of Play:
Child psychologist Dr. Laurel Clark suggests that play isn’t just an activity; it’s a crucial building block of a child’s emotional, cognitive, and social development. When parents actively participate, it elevates the experience, forging deeper bonds and mutual understanding.
Integrating play into daily routines doesn’t need grand gestures. It could be as simple as turning meal preparation into a culinary adventure or using travel time as an opportunity for imaginative storytelling.
Just remember play is VERY healthy for kids and all kids WANT to play, so use it to your advantage.
“Ok that’s nice, but how?”
Turning Daily Tasks into Playful Adventures
1. Transitions with Play
Children often resist transitions, especially when it means moving from a fun activity to a less preferred task. A playful approach can make these shifts smoother and more enjoyable. By incorporating a brief, fun game into the transition, you not only capture their attention but also prepare them to follow subsequent directions more willingly.
For instance, rather than hurriedly declaring, “We need to get in the car now; we’re running late!” engage their imagination. Initiate a playful countdown with “Zombie! Start hiding in 10, 9, 8…” Follow it with “Lava alert! Off the floor in 5, 4, 3…” and then guide them with “Put on your shoes in 15, 14, 13…” This playful approach makes transitions so much easier, more fun, and reduces stress for both you and your child.
2. Transform Chores into Games:
In the vein of Mary Poppins, who effortlessly turned the tedious chore of tidying up a room into a whimsical game, parents too can infuse a little magic into mundane tasks. Remember, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. Imagine the routine act of cleaning, now a treasure hunt where parents and children eagerly search for “hidden treasures” like toys or books.
Morning rituals can take on an element of surprise: Who’ll craft the quirkiest outfit or recount the most fascinating dream? By viewing chores as opportunities for playful contributions, not only is the task achieved, but precious memories are woven into the process.
Renowned educator and TED Speaker, Sir Ken Robinson, championed the transformative power of creativity in everyday life to where chores become less about obligation and more about contribution and fun.
3. Cherish the time, schedule the play.
Join in their play. Whether it’s collaborating on a Lego masterpiece with your little one or navigating the virtual realms of video games with your teen, embrace the experience (try Overcooked, it’s a TON of FUN!!)
Don’t fret about not being an expert; sometimes the laughter in the learning journey strengthens your bond. When they guide and you learn, it creates a unique bond that stands the test of time.
Take a moment right now to schedule regular playtime with your kids. And no, it doesn’t have to be every day … start with once a week and then add more as you see how much fun it is.
As children become more and more independent, these shared moments are gone. Reflecting on life, many seniors express two poignant regrets:
→ being consumed by work and
→ not savoring moments with their loved ones.
Make the Choice Today to Prioritize Play and Connection!
As parents, our primary role isn’t just to ensure our children’s well-being but to actively partake in their world of wonder. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s the moments of laughter, shared stories, and imaginative play that become the cherished memories of tomorrow, next month, and the time when you are an empty nester.
As we navigate the complexities of parenting, let’s remind ourselves to prioritize these moments of connection and joy.
How do you incorporate play into your daily routines? Share your ideas and stories with us. After all, every shared story is a potential new adventure for another family.
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