Kids become more creative and gain problem-solving and decision-making skills when they don’t have someone to think for them. If you have an only child, here are some of the ways you can help them get used to playing by themselves.
7. Start Small
Children do not adapt well to sudden changes. If your child was used to playing with other kids, and now, he is forced to spend more hours alone at home, don’t go full tilt on forcing independence. Do not expect an overnight change. Be patient as he learns independent play. A few minutes at a time may be all he can handle. And even with that, expect some fussing. Incremental success will build with time.
6. Parallel Play
Children watch what adults are doing and try to imitate their behavior. According to Today’s Parent, you need to model an independent behavior for your child in order to encourage them to play by themselves. For example, you can set your child at the table with his toys as you read a book or go over your bills. Try not to get involved in what he is doing and discourage him from interrupting you while he is playing.
5. Refuse To Give In To His Tantrums
Kids always crave attention. Before your child learns to play on his own, he will get easily bored when alone and may become whiny and fussy. Mindfully create situations where you don’t allow his general bad attitude to get to you. When you remain calm even amid tears, your child will eventually learn that he will not get his way through the tantrums. According to The Washington Post, being resilient will teach your child to be on his own a bit more.
4. Put Him In Charge
Explain to your child that he has full control over his playtime and resist the urge to interfere. Let them be in charge of picking out what kind of games they want to play and for how long. However, be careful to set some boundaries using rules and routines.
3. Allow Digital Time
f you have strict rules regarding spending time online, it is time to relax those rules. While your child may not be able to spend more time with his peers as before, that does not mean he cannot still interact with others. According to Parents, you can sign up your child for online art classes where he can learn some projects. Choose a site where he has to interact with other children online.
2. Entice Independent Play
To encourage independent play, you may have to entice your child if necessary. Buy some new toys to add to his collection. You can also make some non-messy snacks to take to their play area. Such incentives normally result in little or no resistance.
1. Choose An Ideal Play Location
You cannot successfully teach your child independent play if you allow him to roam around the house. You will have to constantly check up on them to ensure they don’t get into trouble. Choose an ideal location for their playtime and set some type of boundary in place. Make sure the space is safe and have their toys ready for them. Don’t limit their playtime to indoors only. On a good day, allow them to venture into the yard and be within a supervision distance.
Teaching your child to battle boredom at an early stage is very important. This not only allows you to get things done around the house, but it makes them find ways to occupy unstructured time, which is a vital life skill. Independent play helps children to explore their passions, free from direction or suggestion.