Play is a natural part of your child’s development and it is a powerful way that you can use to make a connection with them. Through play you can foster trust and create meaningful memories that are going to last a lifetime.
Children use play to explore their world, develop critical life skills that they will need throughout their lifetime and also to express their feelings. When you start engaging in play you are getting a window into your child’s mind and this is how you develop that deeper connection.
Here’s a look at how you can use play to effectively bond with your child.
Be Fully Present
The most important thing you can do during playtime is to make sure that you are always present for it. Life can get busy and it’s easy to be distracted by your other responsibilities, your work and even your phone. By setting aside time away from these distractions and focusing solely on your child, you show them that you highly value them.
Even short play sessions can be meaningful if you are genuinely engaged with them. When you’re playing make sure that you always follow your child’s lead. Don’t try to control the game. This allows your child to express themselves very freely and it deepens your connection.
Encourage Different Types of Play
There are many types of play and each of them is going to provide unique opportunities for you to bond with your child in a special way.
Physical Play
Games such as tag or catch are going to have you rolling on the floor together and this is a fun way to bond. Physical play encourages a lot of bonding time through shared activity, touch and laughter.
Creative Play
Art activities such as building something together can inspire creativity and collaboration. Painting and drawing are also good activities for you to bond with your child. Whether you are crafting a masterpiece or you’re working on a puzzle, spending time together is going to ensure that you have good teamwork. You can use toys from Versaplay to help you make imaginative play even more enjoyable.
Imaginative Play
Pretend play such as dressing up as real dolls or even action figures is going to help your child explore their emotions through various scenarios.
You can take on a character and participate in this imaginary world. This helps your child to connect on an emotional level while you are encouraging their creativity.
Teach Important Lessons Through Play
Play is also an excellent way for you to teach life skills and values as well. When you play games and do activities with your child you can model positive behavior such as sharing as well as taking turns. For example, when you’re doing a board game with your child you’re going to be able to demonstrate good sportsmanship with them when you show them how to handle not getting their way in a gracious manner.
No matter how you decide to initiate play with your child it is one of the best ways for you to bond and help them to develop those all important life skills that’s going to make them an amazing human being.
Fraser’s Fun House 