Independent play for toddlers is important to encourage because well… you’re a mom and you’ve got things to get done. Oh you thought I was going to say because it helps them to build imagination, problem solving skills and blah blah blah…..
I’m just kidding the cognitive and real life skills are great and very important along with you being able to check off your to do list.
Is independent play good for toddlers?
Yes! There are great benefits to playing with other toddlers, however the power encouraging your toddler to play independently should not be over looked. Independently play promotes amazing imaginative skills . It also helps your toddler to depend on themselves to solve a problem instead of immediately coming to you. And this is a skill you want them to develop because after all we are raising our toddlers to one day become self able responsible adults.
Create a learning space for independent play
Most know about a Zen corner or a Calm Corner which has its pros for sure. However, I’m a fan of a learning corner (or learning space) because it encourages productivity. Your toddler can even practice calmness while reading a book or coloring. When they have a specific space where they know that type of activity is what goes down here. They will be motivated to grab a book and do something productive on their own.
Start with 5-minute independent play times.
I believe parents become frustrated because they want their toddlers to be able to play independently for 20-30 minutes while they can get something significant done. And honestly, you are setting your expectations too high. A toddler’s attention span is 5-6 minutes. Four-year-olds can last up to 8-10 minutes. However no matter what toddler stage they are in starting off with 5 minutes works good, especially if they are new to independent playtime.
Give your toddler time and attention first before moving them to independent play time.
I learned this by experiencing it myself. I noticed that when I played with her and gave her my undivided attention for a good 15-20 minutes she was totally okay with playing independently for a while. She got her much-needed dose of love and laughs from tickles and was good to go.
Ensure independent playtime is a part of the daily routine.
Explain to your toddler what is happening and that you’ll be right a few feet apart washing dishes. The key to this is staying close by where your toddler can see you. Toddlers cooperate best when they feel safe and secure. Otherwise, they won’t be able to focus and will be getting up looking for you.
Let your child be fully engaged with whatever they are doing during their playtime.
In other words, leave them alone. Let them be and then compliment what they are doing afterward. Whenever I would comment on what my daughter was doing independently it would shift her focus and she would completely stop and it would be tough getting her back into that mode.
Have the best independent toys laid out and ready for your toddler to enjoy.
or you can have a Montessori type of shelf where they can grab what is available. Make sure to wipe out the toys to keep them fresh. They will eventually get bored with having to play with the same toys.
