Top 10 Tips for Play

Remember, it’s not what you do…it’s how you do it!

DO give your children the chance to choose what game they want to play and how they want to do it. Forcing them to do something they don’t like or find too difficult just isn’t fun.

Don’t solve every task for your child; encourage them to solve the problem themselves. Doing something for a child isn’t playing.

DO remember that all children are different: some like physical energetic play, some love word games, some are born to perform and some can’t stop making things (and destroying them) So think about the kinds of activities your child likes and let them take the lead.

Don’t be a competitive mum or dad. Children often say parents play to win. Learning how to lose is an important social skill, but try to keep games enjoyable and let them win too – sometimes!

Don’t be afraid to join in with your child’s make-believe games. Children love it when parents play act and it lets their imaginations run wild.

DO let you children enjoy physical challenges such as climbing trees. Children learn through taking risks. Don’t be overly protective if the worst that can happen is a bump or scrape.

DO get out of doors and play: its healthier and more fun – and if they get dirty or wet, well that’s what baths and washing machines are for! (That goes for messy play indoors too.)

DO let children teach you how to play with their toys or computer games. They will take great pleasure in the role reversal and telling you what they know.

DO share a game you used to play as a child, like hopscotch or making camps. Think of the things you enjoyed playing. The chances are your children will enjoy the same things.

Finally, ENJOY playing, if your child is having fun but your not, leave them to it…if they’re not having fun try something else.

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