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Writer's pictureFarhana Iffath

The 4 “RIGHTS” of Independent play - By "Mariam Affan", Play Therapist.


The Right Toys




Giving your child the right toy to play is very essential in encouraging Independent playing habits.

• Choosing age appropriate toys.

•Giving two or three options to play with.

•Choosing toys which the child is familiar with.


The Right Place



Make sure the chosen play area is ;

•Well ventilated.

•Well lit.

• Safe for your child so as to you don't have to constantly be there to supervise.

•Also make sure that you are not visible to the child while she/he is playing. It will make it more difficult.


The Right Time



Making sure that your child is well fed and fresh enough to be left alone to play. If your child is hungry or sleepy he /she is going to feel cranky and the play time won’t last long .


Pro tip: keep a sipper or water bottle close so they can quench their thirst when needed.


The Right Length of Time

Keep realistic expectations. Start with a smaller span of time and then increase slowly .

For toddlers beginning with 5 mins then increase gradually, for a little elder ones start with 15 mins.




Try considering each right for a happy independent play session



Coming to a few activities :

  • Making play dough /slime at home . Engaging child in the making of it makes the child more excited about the particular activity.

  • Investing in open ended toys like blocks which can help your child be engaged for long time .

  • Play ‘Eye-spy’ for example ask your child to fine something of ‘xyz’ colour in the room . That way your child remains active, busy and entertained .

  • Ask your child to help you make few chits in which you write activity ideas . Keep them in a jar and ask your child to pick one when she is getting bored. Makes it exciting this itself is a activity .

  • Letting your child decide on what they want to do give them a sense of importance and help better their Decision making skills .


Follow Mariam Affan in Instagram to know more about Play Therapy:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CD_Xp4iFQ63/?igshid=1bdiolaka9l66

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