By Kyle Harris
Most parents want to be involved in all aspects of their children’s lives, and so they keep a close eye on them while they’re doing homework, interacting with friends, and even while they’re playing. Although a lot of mums and dads have good intentions while guiding their children in everything they do, they’re unknowingly depriving their kids of the chance to be independent, which is essential for their overall development. According to findings published in the Journal of Pediatrics, the rise of mental health disorders is related to the lack of opportunities for children and teens to play and engage in activities that aren’t led, controlled, or supervised by adults.
Experts say that for kids to grow up well adjusted, they need to have opportunities for independent activities, including self-directed play. If you’re a parent, it’s only natural for you to be worried about the dangers that your child may face if they play alone outside your home. But by having a playroom, you can create a safe space where they can have some unstructured playtime. Here are some playroom essentials to encourage your child to engage in creative and independent play.
A Neat and Cosy Play Area
Before buying toys and other playroom must-haves, see to it that your child’s play area is clean, organised, and comfortable at all times. First, get rid of clutter since it can make kids feel anxious or fatigued. According to Dr. Sherrie Bourg Carter, a psychologist who specialises in the area of women and stress, clutter causes feelings of anxiety, and it can even inhibit creativity and productivity. To prevent clutter, keep playthings neatly contained in plastic bins, baskets, or trays, and place them on low shelves or carts to make them accessible.
Next, plan on having lots of floorspace where your child can build or create things. Position all furniture near the walls, then put a non-slip rug or rubber matting on the floor. You may also want to consider adding a custom built sofa bed or sleeper in the playroom so your child has a comfy place to rest or read. Check if it’s just the right size for the room, and have it covered in a stain-resistant fabric to keep it looking pristine.
Toys to Build Things With
Lego and bricks are essentials in every playroom since they foster creativity and enhance a child’s fine motor skills. But apart from these, you can add other things that your kids can use to build things with. Foam blocks, magnet tiles, and marble runs will allow your child to build structures and tiny worlds in their playroom. These toys will not only encourage them to play independently, but they can also sharpen their strategy and critical thinking skills. What’s more, they can help them to develop good values, such as patience and resilience, while they play.
