Encouraging Independent Play

“Do you have tips for encouraging independent play?”

ANSWER- Absolutely! Let’s talk about it! My biggest tips for encouraging independent play are:

1. Try to have realistic expectations for their age/personality. For example, if you’ve always played with them, or they really innately are motivated more extrinsically, it may take time for them to build on their own skills & that’s okay.

2. I find being physically present but doing something is HUGE! For example, I’ll often use their independent play time to sit near them & read, and in the beginning I even set visual timers if needed, as they get older.

3. Be patient if independent play is new to your little! Even if it only lasts for a minute or two, I promise it’ll build on itself.

Hope this helps!

Want More?

For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.

Was this helpful? Save it for later!

KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.