How to teach your child to play Independently ?

 

Kid playing

Independent play becomes increasingly important as children return to school like in Nurseries in Wimbledon, parents return to work, and everyone in the family requires some alone time. It can also make everyone's start of the school year less stressful!

Here are some suggestions that may be useful to teach your child to play Independently:

1. Explain the expectations to your child. Every day, they are expected to play alone for 10-30 minutes (depending on their age). Assure your child that this is not a punishment and that you have explained all of the reasons why it is necessary.

2. Set the timer. Set a timer or show your child the clock so they know when they can stop playing alone and show you what they've done (though they are free to continue playing if they prefer!)

3. Brainstorming activities Sit down with them and make a list of all the things they can do on their own. Legos, puzzles, word finds, drawings, dolls, and action figures are all possibilities. It could also include longer projects that can be completed in installments, such as creating a comic book, designing a city, or creating birthday cards or books.

4. Set the limits. Ascertain that your child understands what they are not permitted to do while playing alone. Is it permissible for them to use scissors or glue, for example? Is it permissible for them to go outside or use the kitchen? If their activity requires them to do something they are not permitted to do alone, either encourage them to choose a different activity or assist them with parts of it before they begin.

5. Praise. When the time limit has expired, return your full attention to your child and express genuine interest in what they have accomplished. Give them plenty of praise for playing independently and for the specific activity they completed.