TOPIC 10PRACTICAL MONTESSORI PARENT INSIGHT

Play

Your child doesn't need to be entertained all day.

We sometimes feel responsible for filling every empty minute of childhood with classes, activities, crafts, educational toys, playdates, videos and games.

However, genuine play has something adults cannot manufacture for children: the freedom to decide what happens next.

• A cardboard box can become a house.

• A spoon can become a microphone.

• A cushion can become a mountain.

• A few stones can become a collection.

• A child can repeat the same game twenty times because repetition is meaningful to them.

Before buying another activity, look at what is already available: Can your child reach their books? Are a few toys accessible without asking an adult? Is there space to build? Can they play with everyday objects safely? Can they go outside? Can they play without an adult constantly directing the play?

You don't have to entertain your child simply because they are bored: “I don't have a game for you right now. You can find something to do.” Then wait. Children realize how to navigate through to find something interesting provided things are within reach.