"Play
is the work of children" — Jean Piaget
Children
can and should generate their own play. You do not have to entertain
them all the time.
It
is okay for children to be bored. It is a natural process of learning
to be self-directed and resourceful.
You
do need to provide the materials they need to stimulate play.
Materials
should be basic. The more basic the material the more likely that the
child can use it for multiple purposes. Examples: balls, rope, pail
and shovel, deck of cards, crayons, paper, etc.
A
child absorbed in an activity of their own making can be quiet and will
provide parents with free time.
Sleep
is essential, for both the children and the parents. Make sure children
are getting enough sleep. (Some experts suggest that children ages 2-3
years old should get 14-16 hours of sleep, children 3-5 years old should
get 11-14 hours of sleep, while children ages 7-11 years old need 10
hours.)
Expect
messiness. Expect children to clean up their mess.
Two
children playing together are easier to manage than one child alone.
Encourage
your children to play in multi-age groups. Young children need to
learn
from older children. Older children enjoy teaching, showing off, and
leading younger children.
Look
for playmates for your children on your block and in your neighborhood.
Look for older retired people who like children — developing a
visiting relationship could bring pleasure to both people.
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