How to Play with Your Child at Any Age (Even If It Doesn’t Come Naturally)

Did you know that before they turn 8, play is basically the main way a child communicates? Playing also aids in developing physical abilities, cognitive skills, language, and social interactions. In fact, play is essential for kids to grow and develop in a healthy manner.

One clear reason many parents would give is that playing with children allows for more quality time together. And that totally makes sense. It’s a logical idea that the more time a parent spends with their child, the stronger their bond will be. 

However, while it’s true that parents and kids build better relationships by spending time together, there’s a lot more to it than just that.

"We don’t stop playing because we get older; we get older because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw

You're not alone if playing with your child doesn't come naturally to you. Discover ways to engage in play with your child, no matter their age.

Tip 1: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Even if you'd prefer to tackle overseeing your child's homework instead of constructing a fort, it can be helpful to challenge yourself. Allow your child to take charge, even if that doesn't feel instinctive to you. Try to set aside the idea of there being a "right way" to build a fort and let your child discover through trial and error while you lend a hand. After that, head inside the fort with a flashlight and read their favourite book together. You might be amazed at how much fun you have with this activity after all.

Tip 2: Be Spontaneous

It can be tough to go from being the super-organized parent to one who’s playful and relaxed. However, if your child notices that you’re flexible and open to having some fun, even if the kitchen or living room is a bit chaotic, they’re more likely to take a break from their activities to hang out with you as they get older.

Tip 3: Unleash Your Inner Child

Even if you feel your inner child is deeply hidden beneath your adult exterior, experiencing life from your child's point of view can evoke a sense of nostalgia. Embrace this as a treasure and strive to reconnect not just with your child but also with a younger you.

Tip 4: Embrace Your Creativity

As we age, we frequently become more self-conscious, more aware of the eyes of others judging us. This can really dampen our creativity and lead us down a more traditional route. When the chance arises, try to relax and, as the saying goes, "dance like nobody's watching." Also, it can be helpful to you to connect with your creative side outside of playing with your child. For example, consider taking a cooking or pottery class with your spouse or a friend. This new outlet of creativity can also lend a hand with playtime, such as an arts and crafts project or time spent together in the kitchen.

Tip 5: Think Quality Over Quantity

Twenty minutes of focused interaction can have a much more enduring and impactful effect than two hours spent next to each other looking at different screens. It offers the chance to practice real-life conversations that your child may experience in the future, and that experience isn't the same when it's digital.

Tip 6: A Family That Enjoys Activities Together Sticks Together

Engaging in playtime builds lasting memories, the kind that your child is going to remember fondly time and again. Those playful moments matter because it's time spent bonding with your child on their level, using their natural language.

Playtime Tips Through the Ages

Tips for Parents of Preschoolers

Preschoolers are pros at having fun. A big cardboard box can turn into a secret hideout or a cozy home. Blankets and cushions, an indoor fort, and paper with crayons can keep them entertained for hours. They’re always up for an adventure, especially when you’re there to join in.

Tips for Parents of School-age Children

Kids in school are usually into role playing and fantasy and/or adventure games. Putting on their favourite superhero costume or even some old clothes from a dress-up box can really brighten up a chilly day indoors. While it might seem like a hassle at first, getting involved in role play with your kids can teach you a lot. This is a great opportunity to act out real-life situations, which can give you deeper insight into their thoughts.

Tips for Parents of Teens

Once your child hits their teenage years, they might start feeling a bit shy and less interested in fantasy play, except maybe when they're online. They might prefer organized activities like mini golf (whether indoors or outdoors), chess, board games, or basketball for their playtime. At this stage, keep an eye on how playful your teen is with their friends; it can be fun to see them let loose, so encourage that behaviour, even if it seems a bit silly.