30/01/2021
We now know that play is important in child development, as it contributes to their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being, but what happens when you throw a parent into the mix?
As a parent, playing with your child creates an ideal opportunity for you to engage fully with them. It is when parents observe their children in play, or join with them in child-driven play, that they are given a unique opportunity to see the world from their child’s vantage point; as the child navigates a world perfectly created just to fit his or her needs.
Parents who have the opportunity to glimpse into their children’s world learn to communicate more effectively with their children and are given another setting to offer gentle, nurturing guidance. Less verbal children may be able to express their views, experiences, and even frustrations through play, allowing their parents an opportunity to gain a fuller understanding of their perspective. Quite simply, play offers parents a wonderful opportunity to engage fully with their children.
Most importantly, these special interactions that occur through play, tell children that parents are fully paying attention to them and help to build enduring relationships.
