Encouraging Independent Play for Children

Beyond helping your child become more self-reliant, imaginative, and creative, independent play also helps you get some well-deserved “me time”! Here are some ways in which you can encourage your child to play independently.

Art

Provide your little one with some crayons, markers, and pencils, and watch them stay engaged for hours! When they express themselves creatively in this way, they also develop their hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills.

For digital-physical drawing games, check out Osmo’s Masterpiece and Super Studio Series.

Reading

Another great way to encourage independent play is through reading. If your child is too young to read big words, you could keep them engaged with picture books. Make sure to set aside at least 30 minutes every day for reading. 

Check out these literacy games for kids.

Block Play

Blocks or bricks are every child’s favorite! As kids play with these, they also learn about balance and reasoning.

Sensory Exploration

Simply fill a container with toys, pebbles, and anything else your kids might like to play with!

Kitchen Fun

Empty the contents of a low kitchen cabinet and fill them with utensils. Your kids will enjoy playing with them. It’s also a great way to keep kids occupied while you cook.

Encouraging independent play can be easy when you incorporate these activities into your child’s routine. Try them and see for yourself.

We’ve got some amazing learning games for kids at our website.