Kids need quality play time

When was the last time you seriously, whole-heartedly and with 100% focus played with your child? It’s so easy to get distracted by work, TV, online media and other family members when we’re spending time with our kids. Sometimes, we are not doing anything but our mind is very busy with other things.

Playtime tips from Mommy Lace:

– Set a regular daily schedule for playtime with your child. Ours is after dinner around 8PM

– Pick a play room or a place where it’s just the two of you (or, tell housemates it is your playtime)

– Turn off the TV, your laptop, your cellphone, etc.

– Have a basketful of toys ready. When you focus on playing, you’ll be surprised how creative you can be with toys. Only play one toy at a time.

– Clean as you go. As you switch toys, teach your kid to put away toys that are no longer needed.We use used packing materials to store toys.

– Finally, enjoy. Take this time to empty your mind, forget about work and finances and just thank God that you are here with your child – playing.

I recently watched a documentary by the BBC called “Child of our time”. It featured a few toddlers and their respective moms. In a nutshell, some moms were very dedicated in understanding and paying attention to their kids. Some however, unintentionally ignore their children’s needs. Like the need to play and be played with. Kids who had ‘focused’ moms fared well in developmental tests, were more behaved, and had good well-being. Other kids who were regularly ignored and not allowed to play like they need to, had difficulty paying attention, had attitude problems, etc.

As a mom myself, I know for sure that my child craves for my time and attention. It’s not enough that I am present but I should be aware of our playtime and be serious about it. I see moms complain how makulit or naughty their kids are but sometimes, it all boils down to how we treat our kids and the environment we rear them in.