Video : the importance of play

Watch Carol discuss the importance play is in the life of a child.

Playing comes naturally for children.  It’s how they learn about themselves, about those around them, and about their world. Yet have you ever considered that play is also a doorway into your child’s world?  It’s an excellent way to enter their space, on their terms – which magically allows them to show you who they really are.  When you play with your child, on equal terms (or even better with them taking the lead), it’s a fabulous way to reconnect, building confidence and bringing you both closer.  Think about it, the more you’re able to join your children in play, fully entering their world, the closer they’ll feel to you, and the more natural it becomes for them to respond well in your world.

It’s amazing that even half an hour of weekly, uninterrupted play with your child can achieve so much. It really works wonders – especially if you’re struggling to deal with children who’ve developed some nasty behavioural issues.  Children simply savour the opportunity for undivided connecting time with you.  What happens over a short space of time is fascinating.  Because this kind of quality play and connection time make kids feel empowered and important, their “bad” behaviour begins to disappear.

Remember :

• let your child lead
• let go of your ‘adult parent’ self (just for the play time)
• make sure to give plenty of warning about how much play time is left
• avoid all distractions (switch off your devices)

Having fun playing together is really powerful.