Engaging kids in short child-led play sessions increases children's chance to listen to their parents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, special playtime gives parents a chance to emphasize their child's positive behaviors and establish a solid, loving bond with them.
Special Playtime For Kids
The idea is straightforward. Parents must sit with their children for at least five minutes each day and participate in an activity with them. The right activity must be something that doesn't have a right or wrong way to play, such as drawing, building blocks, playing with dolls, and playing video games. In this period, let the child lead. It's best to refrain from asking them questions or giving them orders.
According to Roger Harrison, a pediatric psychologist from Nemours Children's Health in Wilmington, Delaware, the special playtime allows young children to interact with their parents without the pressure of following instructions, enhancing their relationship.
Opportunities for intimacy between a parent and child are increased through special playtime. The possibility that a kid would listen to or value what a parent has to say rises as that bond develops.
Appropriate Toys and Activities During Special Playtime
According to Children's Lifetime, toys or activities that encourage the child's creativity are one of the things to consider for special playtime. Some toys and tools that encourage kids to use their imaginations include paper, crayons, and building blocks. It is generally not a good idea to utilize a toy during special playtime if it moves and interacts independently.
Young children should play with toys and activities appropriate for their age, such as child scissors, plastic pots and pans, and big plastic blocks. Toys with tiny, removable parts should be avoided for very young children.
Additionally, it's crucial to employ games and activities appropriate for the child's skill level. Larger blocks may be preferable when playing with young children because they are simpler to handle and assemble. Ample toys should be available so you may play with your child. To mimic your child's behavior, for instance, you could wish to have two dolls or trucks for special playtime.
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Use PRIDE for Effective Special Playtime
Praise, reflect, imitate, describe, and enthusiasm makes up the acronym PRIDE, which is invented for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. The study supporting it is published in the American Psychological Association.
When praising, focus on the behaviors you want to see more of and provide positive affirmation. Rather than saying, "good job," say, "I love the way you stack those blocks high."
Reflect means also repetition. They will verbally repeat some of what they say. The repetition shows the child that you understand them and that you're listening.
To imitate is to participate in a child's parallel play. You can stack Legos if they are doing it. You make crayon dots on paper if they are making crayon dots on paper. The kids will see that you are having fun with them. They'll let you know if they don't want you to copy them.
Playing with a child requires enthusiasm. You can convey that you're having fun by smiling, clapping, or using your words. So, compliment them and give them a high five whenever you see them do a puzzle or dress up their doll.
According to psychologist Kerrie Murphy, a trained therapist and trainer in PCIT, the goal is to avoid situations where you might have to give your child instructions or advise them to be careful.
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