I can’t leave my son to play on his own for 5 minutes. What can I do about his need for constant attention?
There is so much pressure on parents to provide constant stimulation for kids. Flashcards, educational games, math camp, art lessons, physics for preschoolers, the list goes on. But let’s not forget a very valuable skill we can teach our kids: the ability to keep themselves amused (not to mention a few minutes for mom to brush her teeth in peace!)
1) Be realistic: The goal is not to leave little Billy down in the basement with his LEGO ® while mom naps for a couple of hours. The younger the child, the shorter the time span for independent play; 5-20 minutes is reasonable.
2) Turn off the tube: There’s no question TV can be a convenient way to keep kids occupied, but they still need to learn to play independently without all that external stimulus. Try turning on a favourite CD during playtime instead.
3) Start small: Hang out in the next room for a few minutes at a time (throwing in a load of laundry, putting away groceries) where your child can see you but not interact. Always praise them on your return for having played on their own (even in the beginning when they’re more likely just to stand at the baby gate calling your name!).
Nanny Carrie’s Tip: For the little ones, use dwindling naptimes to practice independent play. This works especially well if your toddler is still in a crib. Toss in a few toys and have designated ‘quiet playtime.’
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Adorable picture with this post! Aww.
I agree! Learning to play independently is so important for both mom and child. And I it will help eliminate the “I am bored” syndrome later in life too if they can learn to entertain themselves.
Start them on an activity. Make sure they are engaged and then walk away.
Great information. So true. I used these kind of things with my second child, not with my first. I think it the reason that my youngest can play for a long time by herself and doesn’t need to be by my side to feel comfortable. My oldest needs to be with me all the time, needs to know where I am all the time and has to be only a shout away. I wish I had worked hard on independence with my first child. It is a valuable skill/tool/virtue to learn