Playing Alone: ​​Why It's Important for Children

Learn why playing alone helps children develop creativity, independence, and critical thinking. Tips for parents on supporting independent play at home.

What is solitary play and why is it important?

Children who play independently learn many valuable lessons that will stay with them throughout their lives. For example, such games help develop self-sufficiency and creativity, since no one tells them how or what to play. Independent games also help children become well-rounded individuals who feel comfortable in different situations, including being alone.

There is also the belief that overly busy schedules for children—the opposite of independent play—can create unnecessary pressure and deprive them of the benefits of play. It can even negatively impact a child's health. Here are a few more reasons why it's important to let your kids play on their own.

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Independent play teaches you to entertain yourself

Children who can play independently learn to enjoy themselves. They don't depend on others to be happy or entertained. As they get older, they realize that they won't always have someone by their side. This makes them more confident and content.

Stimulates the imagination

Try to give your child more time for independent play! You will see how he creates new heroes, princesses and invents other scenarios that would not have appeared if the child constantly played with someone. Your child will learn to think quickly and show his creativity.

Source: Freepik

Develops social independence

Playing alone builds a strong sense of independence in children. They do not depend on the company of other people and feel comfortable being alone. This independence helps them adapt to different life situations.

Independent play does not make children reclusive. On the contrary, it prepares them for various formats of interaction: morning games alone, daytime meetings with friends, or evening sleepovers.

Encourages calmness

Outdoor play activates children, and playing with others provides a lot of emotional interaction. On the other hand, independent play helps children calm down. Many of them play peacefully and quietly with their toys, which helps relieve tension and improve mood.

Teaches self-compassion

It’s important for children to know that you’re there when they need you. However, independent play also teaches them self-soothing skills. Children learn to draw on their own resources to solve problems, understand their emotions, and express them better.

Creates a sense of security

Even if you want to be there for your child all the time, it’s not possible. When children learn to play independently, they don’t have to rely on you as their main source of entertainment. They learn that your absence doesn’t mean you’re ignoring them, and they start to value their own time.

Source: Freepik

Gives you time to relax

Another nice bonus of independent play is that it gives you a chance to relax. Although this is not the main goal, your example is also important for children. They see that you enjoy your own activities and understand that you don't need to be around everyone all the time to be happy.

How to encourage a child to play independently?

Some children easily accept the idea of ​​independent play, others may resist. Here are some tips to help you encourage your child to have independent fun:

• Create comfortable conditions for them: Before asking your child to play on their own, prepare several options for them. This could be a construction zone, a playhouse, or a creative corner. The key is to give them several options and let them choose on their own.
• Don't force them to leave the room.: Children often want to be near their parents, so don't force them to play in another room. Let them play near you, and it won't be perceived as punishment.
• Be a good example: If you want your child to learn to play independently, set an example. Do your own thing: read a book, do a hobby. Children copy the behavior of adults, so to foster independence in them, show them that you yourself do not always need company.

Independent play is an important element of development that helps children grow into confident, creative, and independent individuals.