Some ‘alone time’ is just as important for children as it is for adults.
And children thrive when they are given the space and opportunity to investigate, experiment and work things out for themselves.
Even within a large social group, such as day-care, it is not uncommon to see a child take themselves away and enjoy some play time just in their own world. They are choosing to spend time with themselves.
This is something to be aware of during Level 4 when many homes are experiencing more ‘family time’ than usual.
It’s wonderful to have some extra time with the kids and engage in fun activities which often don’t make it into a working week.
But, it is also a good idea to ensure your little ones have some space to do their own thing once in a while.
This can be as simple as setting up an activity, then leaving them to it.
It can be any activity your child enjoys – just stand back and stay quiet.
On a fine afternoon, rug up, (it’s still chilly), and encourage your child to explore, investigate, work out and discover.
Resist asking questions or other verbal engagement – leave them in their own little world where their thoughts and understanding occurs organically.