Parenting 101: Playing Time is Bonding Time

Most parents are very busy with work or chores that they hardly have time to spend with their children. Even if they do, it often happens that a parent is already too tired to play or do activities. This diminishes the quality in the time spent with the child and they may end up doing passive activities like watching television or merely sitting on the couch. However, it is important to remember that bonding time is crucial for the overall development of the child. Playing is one of the best ways to spend time with your child. Here are some of the reasons why parent-child play is beneficial to your kid.

Benefits of Parent-Child Play # 1 – Play provides opportunity for parents to educate children

It is through play that children are able to learn about the world and are able to hone and foster various aspects of mental and physical development. Playing with your child can help him develop different kinds of skills that are necessary for his progress. It is also through play that you would be able to teach your kid moral values and social etiquette. For example, by playing with toy kitchens, you can help your kid foster his creative imagination. By playing with dog stuffed animals, you can inculcate in him the value of respect for animals. If you guide him in playing his ride on toys, you can ensure his proper physical development.

Benefits of Parent-Child Play # 2 – Play allows parents to connect with children

Aside from educational purposes, playtime also serves as an opportunity for parents to connect and cultivate closeness with the child. Playing is how children express themselves and if you join your child in his playtime, you will be surprised at how much you will get to know more of him and his likes, insights, emotions, preferences, habits and attitude. For instance, the way he takes care of his stuffed animals gives you a peek on how much he is compassionate to animals. His dexterity for building things would give you an idea about his problem solving and logical skills. Moreover, by showing to your kid that you are interested in what he does, it would be easier for him to respect you and connect with you.

Benefits of Parent-Child Play # 3 – Play gives parents chance to spend quality time with their children.

Lastly, playing gives you a chance to spend time with your child. Sure, you see him all the time in the house but it does not necessarily mean that you are able to spend quality time with your little one. There is a huge difference between spending time and spending quality time. In the latter, the significant aspects of love, care, interaction and connection are present, whereas in the former, you two are just physically together. Children who spend quality time with their parents grow up more confident, secure, and have better attitudes than those who did not.

Needless to say, parent-child play is very essential in a child’s life. Even if you are extremely busy with work or house chores, see to it that you find time to bond with your little one.