Playful parenting

Playful parenting

Children are naturally playful but most adults need reminders to be playful. Being playful includes using humour, creativity, and silliness. It’s about focusing on joy and fun during playtime and also during daily routines. To become more playful, try to slow down the pace of a busy day (whenever possible), make time for things that make you both smile, and have time together without distractions.

In day-to-day interactions, parents often have to set limits and get their child to do things they don’t want to do. Doing that in fun and playful ways can help parents keep a positive outlook and avoid power struggles. Think about a child who is angry and refusing to put on shoes. What if the parent tried to put their own foot into the child’s shoe saying, “I just don’t understand why my shoe doesn’t fit anymore!” As your child grows, notice all the new ways you can be playful together.

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0 - 6

Months - Early smiles

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7 - 12

months & Age 1 - Playing together is a priority

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Age 1

- Simple things make my toddler laugh

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Age 2

- Being playful helps with transitions

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