In the realm of parenting, the act of playing with our children can often be met with mixed feelings. I, too, often find joy in engaging with my three kids, relishing in activities like tossing a football with my ten-year-old or assisting my three-year-old in constructing her Peppa Pig Lego set. Yet, I must confess that about 10% of the time, the prospect of play can be less than appealing.
After a long 12-hour workday, the thought of diving into a game like Battleship can feel daunting. In fact, I’ve never been fond of board games; they simply don’t thrill me. Nevertheless, I find myself playing these games regularly, even when my enthusiasm is lacking. To expedite the process and keep my child’s spirits high, I may bend the rules slightly, ensuring they experience a victory. This not only boosts their confidence but also allows me to wrap up the game sooner—a classic win-win scenario.
For those parents who cherish their children but struggle with the concept of play, there’s encouraging news about its benefits. Over the past few years, Ikea has published an Annual Play Report, emphasizing the significant role of play in child development. Their research involved extensive discussions with over 300 individuals across Germany, the US, and China to uncover the why and how of play.
One noteworthy aspect of the report is its exploration of different play styles and their advantages for both parents and children. One such form is “freestyle” play, where children dictate their own game rules. While parents may feel uncomfortable following an improvised game structure, this type of play fosters a child’s confidence and decision-making skills. Interestingly, it allows adults to revisit childhood perspectives, encouraging fresh ideas and challenging conventional thinking.
Another fascinating category is “Out-of-the-Box” play, which involves creative, artistic activities. This often results in delightful messes, like paint splatters on the kitchen table, followed by the fun of adopting the role of an art critic with an open mind. This kind of play encourages imaginative thinking, which is crucial for both adults and children alike.
The report also discusses structured play, where established rules govern games like chess or Battleship. Despite my aversion to these games, the report highlights their ability to unify families and promote creative problem-solving. Knowing that there are tangible benefits to engaging in these activities might inspire me to embrace them with greater enthusiasm.
The Play Report further delves into other play types, including ‘Mirror-Me’ play, ‘Muddy-Boots’ play, and ‘Build-It’ play, all of which offer similar advantages.
While it may seem obvious that play benefits both children and parents, there are days—especially after being home with children all day—when the last thing I want to do is participate in a game that lacks defined rules or structure. If you’re in the same boat and find it challenging to muster the motivation for an art project or imaginative play, consider the numerous benefits that come from these interactions. They might just make dealing with the mess or the chaos of a new game more bearable.
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In summary, playing with our children, despite its challenges, serves as a significant contributor to their development and strengthens our familial bonds. Embracing these moments can lead to growth and joy for both parents and kids alike.