The importance of independent play in children's development
Table of contents
It is not true that when you leave your child alone with her toys, you neglect and do not love her. Independence is needed for every child. This makes it more resourceful and confident. By letting him play on his own you give him the opportunity to develop properly. What other benefits come with independent play?
Learning to set the rules
Independent play has it that in it your own child makes the rules. It is up to him how he wants to play. One day it will come to want to dig holes or run around a tree, and another day it will want to play with dolls. That's as far as it goes. Independent play also gives the child the opportunity to change the rules when he feels the need to do so. It is the lord and master here. In addition, when a child plays by himself with another toddler, he has the opportunity to get along with him about the rules, and thus learns how to act in such a situation. Playing together is also helpful in building interpersonal relationships.
Independent play teaches consistency
When a child plays together with an adult, he or she will never do anything reckless or anything that could cause adverse consequences for him or her. On the other hand, when playing alone, through independent play, the child learns to quickly anticipate the consequences of his ill-considered actions. If the toddler learns to make decisions on his own, it will be easier for him later in life. The parent, of course, can and even should be present, with such choices, but ultimately it is the child who should determine what he wants to do in such situations. Of course, if it is an idea that is very likely to end tragically for the child or its performance is dangerous to the child's health, then the parent is obliged to forbid the child from such a game.
Teaches confidence
Self-confidence is a trait that is much needed for both children and adults. It makes it easier for the toddler to make decisions and take the consequences of his actions. When parents control their child's every step very tightly, they take away the child's sense of knowing and knowing something. The toddler then thinks that since he has no influence on anything, something must be wrong with him. When you allow your child to make independent decisions while playing, it shows your confidence in his abilities. If the toddler plays by himself, he believes he can handle most situations. As you can see, it is worth allowing him to play on his own, because it gives many benefits.
