How To Teach Your Children To Play On Their Own

Even babies have mastered the art of playing alone. But they can lose this ability again if their parents are too good to them. And feel they have to deal with their offspring as soon as they open their eyes.

Many parents feel guilty when their one-year-old sits on the floor and does nothing more than look at a fly on the wall. “Now I would have to deal with him”, the inner voice says. But now they would only disturb the child in exploring the phenomenon “housefly”.

In addition, it not only observes the crawling animal: at the same time, it strengthens its self-esteem because it amuses itself independently of the attention of an adult; and it trains its ability to concentrate – an important prerequisite for later success at school.

As soon as the child is three to four months old, mums and dads can (and should) encourage independent play. Six important rules to help them do so:

6 important rules

Rule number one:

Just get it done. When your child is “busy” alone, try not to interrupt him or her. This applies to older children, but also to babies. Most babies lie quietly in their crib when they wake up, playing with their hands or babbling to themselves. These moments, when your child is self-sufficient, are the beginning of independent play. Tip: You can prolong the phase of being immersed in yourself by placing a colorful rattle, a small mirror, bells or cuddly toys in the crib or attaching them to the bars.

Rule number two:

Create an exciting environment. For example, if your baby is lying on a blanket, put lots of toys within easy reach. Crawlers and children who can walk need a safe and stimulating environment. For example, cushions to climb on and objects they can build or take apart. Tip: Offer these toys only when your child is playing alone. Afterwards they are collected again. This increases the incentive.

Rule number three:

“Solo playing time”. Young children find it best to find their own playing rhythm when they have the opportunity to play alone regularly. Fixed playing times (one or two per day) are ideal. Ensure a quiet atmosphere, without a running TV or distracting voices from the radio in the background. Tip: Your child does not play alone? Why don’t you first play parallel to (but not with) him and as soon as he “dives” into his game, turn to another activity.

Rule number four:

Leave the room. Playing alone means that your child continues to play, even if you leave him or her alone in the room for a few minutes. You can practice this with him from the age of four months: Pick a moment when your child is fascinated by something, then leave the room. Prolong the absence gradually. Tip: If your child does not want to be left alone, practice with him or her. Announce to him that you are going to the kitchen, bathroom, etc. for a short time and maintain voice contact from there.

Rule number five:

Do not intervene unless it’s an emergency. The ball rolls away, the block does not stay on the other – there are always situations in which your child seems to need help Nevertheless, do not rush to help immediately, but wait a moment longer. Maybe he can solve his problem himself. Tip: Sometimes even a little support is enough, such as the question: “What else could you do with the ball?” And then your child continues playing alone.

Rule No. 6:

Don’t expect too much. All children can learn to play alone. But how long, it depends on the type. It is normal for children under one year to spend five to ten minutes on their own, and between one and three years 15 to 30 minutes. But the important thing is to stay close by. Tip: Use the time for yourself and put your legs up!