Child doesn't play alone? 7 things you should definitely change*

Independent play: The advantages and how to achieve it

Independent play is a valuable skill for a child's development. It not only promotes creativity, but also problem-solving skills and independence. Children who play on their own learn to occupy themselves and use their own imagination. It also gives parents the opportunity to take short breaks and complete their own tasks.

Advantages of playing independently

Promoting creativity

When playing, the child develops its own world and invents new games. This supports the child's creativity and imagination, as they can create their own story and try out different roles. Creative games promote the ability to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to problems.

Strengthening problem-solving skills

During the game, children encounter various challenges and problems that they have to solve independently. This encourages their ability to find creative solutions and strengthens their self-confidence. Children learn to solve problems through trial and error, which is an important life skill.

Development of independence

Children who play on their own learn to occupy themselves and make their own decisions. This is an important step towards self-reliance and independence, which will also benefit them later in life. Independence also means that children learn to trust themselves and take responsibility for their actions.

Improving concentration and attention

Playing alone can improve a child's ability to concentrate and their attention span. Through focussed play, children learn to concentrate on an activity for a longer period of time and to complete it. This can have a positive impact on their academic performance and other activities that require concentration.

Emotional development and self-regulation

Playing alone gives children the opportunity to better understand and regulate their emotions. They learn to cope with frustration and to calm themselves down when things don't work out the way they imagined. This ability to self-regulate is crucial for a child's emotional maturity and well-being.

However, to achieve these benefits, parents need to take some action. Here are seven things you should definitely change if your child is not playing alone.

That's why your child doesn't play alone: The decisive factors at a glance

There are various reasons why a child may not play alone. Understanding these is the first step to solving the problem.

• Excessive dependence on parents

Many children find it difficult to play alone because they rely too much on their parents for constant attention and entertainment. This can be caused by too much playing together or excessive supervision. Children become accustomed to their parents always being around and entertaining them, which inhibits the development of the ability to play alone.

• How to reduce dependency

To reduce dependency, it is important to gradually teach the child to occupy themselves. This can be done through small, controlled steps where the child learns to play alone for short periods of time and gradually extend these. Parents can use these periods to observe the child and make sure they are comfortable and safe.

• Lack of suitable toys

Another important factor can be the lack of interesting and stimulating toys. Without the right tools to stimulate their imagination, it can be difficult for children to occupy themselves on their own. The right toys can make the difference between a child feeling comfortable alone or not.

• Choosing the right toy

Toys should not only be entertaining, but also educational and stimulating. Try to offer a selection of toys that appeal to the child's different senses and abilities. These include, for example, building blocks, puzzles, modelling clay and creative craft materials. High-quality toys can stimulate the child's interest and encourage them to try out and discover new things.

• Insecurity and fear

Some children feel insecure or anxious when they are asked to play on their own. This may be due to previous experiences or a general feeling of insecurity. Children need to feel safe and secure in order to be able to develop freely.

• Strategies for overcoming uncertainty

Parents can support their children by creating a safe and familiar environment. This can be done by setting up a cosy play area that is free from hazards and where the child feels comfortable. Parents should also be encouraging and supportive when the child tries to play alone. A gradual approach to playing alone can help the child build confidence.

• Developmental stage of the child

The child's stage of development also plays a major role. Younger children often need more guidance and support, while older children may show more independence. It is important to consider the child's individual needs and abilities.

• Set age-appropriate expectations

Parents should set realistic expectations for their child's ability to play alone. A two-year-old child will spend less time playing alone than a five-year-old. It is important to be patient and give the child the time they need to develop this skill. Parents should be aware that learning to play alone is a process that takes time and patience.

Parents as the key: the changes you can make

Parents play a crucial role in encouraging their child to play independently. Here are some changes you can make to support your child.

1. gradually reduce joint playing times

Start by gradually reducing the amount of time you play with your child. Encourage your child to play alone for short periods of time and gradually increase these periods. This can be done by introducing fixed play times where the child plays alone while you stay close by and provide reassurance. Through this gradual reduction, the child will learn to increasingly occupy themselves and develop confidence in their own abilities.

2. create a safe and stimulating environment

Make sure your child plays in a safe and stimulating environment. A well-designed play area can encourage creativity and independent play. Ensure that this area is free from distractions and that all necessary toys and materials are within easy reach. A stimulating environment can spark the child's interest and encourage them to try new things and be creative.

3. offer a selection of suitable toys

Invest in toys that stimulate your child's imagination and problem-solving skills. High-quality toys that can be used in a variety of ways can help to pique your child's interest. You can find a selection of suitable toys here: All products. Versatile toys offer your child the opportunity to play different games and create new scenarios again and again.

4. give your child space and time

Allow your child to play at their own pace and occupy themselves. It is important that children have the freedom to organise their own playtime. Give your child enough time and space to develop new games and ideas without feeling pressurised. Children need space to develop their imagination and pursue their own interests.

5. encourage and praise your child

Praise your child when they play alone and continue to encourage them. Positive reinforcement can help your child develop more self-confidence and feel more comfortable playing on their own. Recognise even small successes and make it clear to your child that you are proud of their ability to occupy themselves. Praise and encouragement can boost your child's self-esteem and motivate them to continue playing independently.

6. avoid overstimulation

Avoid overstimulating your child with too many activities or toys. Overstimulation can lead to children having difficulty focussing on a game and playing alone. A well-chosen, limited number of toys can help to focus the child's attention and make their playtime more effective. Less is often more when it comes to encouraging the child to concentrate on a game.

7. be a role model

Show your child that it's okay to spend time alone. When children see that their parents also spend time alone and pursue their own interests, they are more willing to try it out for themselves. Read a book, do a craft or pursue a hobby while your child plays near you. By being a good role model, you can show your child that alone time is a positive thing.

The right toys: how to encourage your child to play alone

Choosing the right toys is crucial to encourage your child to play independently. Here are some tips on how to find the right toy:

1. versatility

Choose toys that can be used in different ways. Building blocks, Lego bricks or modelling clay are good examples of versatile toys that stimulate the imagination. Such toys offer endless possibilities and can be combined and used again and again.

Examples of versatile toys

Building blocks: These can be used to build towers, houses or complex structures. Children can give free rein to their creativity and create ever new structures.

Lego bricks: Similar to building blocks, Lego bricks offer countless combination possibilities and promote spatial thinking and fine motor skills.

Plasticine: Children can use plasticine to model figures, shapes and various objects. It promotes the child's fine motor skills and creativity.

2. challenge and reward

Toys that offer a challenge and a reward for solving them can pique your child's interest. Puzzles or games of skill are ideal for this. They challenge the child mentally and offer great satisfaction when the task is solved.

Examples of challenging toys

Puzzles: Depending on the age and abilities of the child, puzzles of different levels of difficulty can be selected. They promote logical thinking and the ability to concentrate.

Games of skill: Games that require dexterity and patience, such as marble runs or balancing games, can be very stimulating.

3. creative possibilities

Encourage your child's creativity with toys that allow them to create their own world. Colouring sets, craft materials or dressing-up boxes offer many creative possibilities. Such toys support your child's artistic development and ability to express themselves.

Examples of creative toys

Colouring sets: Provide paints, brushes and paper to encourage the child's artistic skills. Children can express their emotions and thoughts through pictures.

Craft materials: Various craft sets containing paper, glue, scissors and decoration materials stimulate creativity and promote fine motor skills.

Dress-up boxes: Costumes and accessories that allow the child to try out different roles and characters promote role play and social development.

4. natural materials

Toys made from natural materials such as wood or fabric can offer a pleasant feel and stimulate your child's senses. Such toys are often durable and offer an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic toys.

Examples of toys made from natural materials

Wooden toys: Wooden puzzles, building blocks and wooden railway tracks are durable and promote motor skills.

Stuffed toys: Stuffed dolls and cuddly toys offer comfort and safety for the child and stimulate role play.

5. age-appropriate toys

Make sure that the toy is appropriate for your child's stage of development. Toys that are too complicated or too simple can quickly become boring or overwhelming. Make sure that the toy is age-appropriate and appeals to your child's abilities and interests.

Examples of age-appropriate toys

For toddlers: Colourful building blocks, simple plug-in toys and large puzzles with few pieces are ideal for younger children.

For pre-school children: More complex puzzles, creative craft sets and educational games that introduce letters and numbers are suitable for pre-school children.

For schoolchildren: construction sets, experimental sets and strategy games can stimulate the interest of older children and challenge them mentally.

You can find a selection of suitable toys here: All products and Two products in one pack.

The most important facts in brief

Independent play is an important skill for your child's development. It promotes creativity, problem-solving skills and independence. If your child has difficulty playing alone, there are various measures you can take. Gradually reduce playtime together, create a safe and stimulating environment, offer a variety of toys and encourage your child through positive reinforcement.

Parents play a crucial role in encouraging their child to play independently. Be a role model, avoid overstimulation and give your child space and time to occupy themselves. With these tips and the right toys, your child can learn to play on their own and enjoy the many benefits of independent play.

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