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Play is Not a Four-Letter Word

Remembering the Importance of Playtime

By Lisa A. Goldstein

"The benefits of this 15 minutes of special time are numerous," says Dr. Smith Kuczmarski. "You will discover your children's needs, especially their emotional and psychological needs. Your listening skills will deepen and improve. Best of all, your relationship will deepen into greater warmth, kindness, closeness and openness."

Independent play also is important. Dr. Smith Kuczmarski says there should be a balance of independent play, social play (with other children) and parent play during the week. When your child plays independently, you don't have to be in the room – depending on the child's age – but should check on the child and let her know how to reach you if she needs assistance. She suggests introducing time alone as soon as possible, age-wise.

If you think the moms who have acquired the ability to play with their kids for hours without getting bored are all teachers by profession, you too can extend your tolerance. Find the kinds of things you enjoy doing with your child, says Lowey. "Playing with your child is different from trying to educate or teach your child," she says. "Having your child help with the cooking, chores around the house or running errands, all these provide opportunities for play and learning. Reading a story to your child, going to a park and exploring nature, noticing what is going on around you like stopping to look at a construction site are all types of play."

Want to see more?

• Teaming Up: Fitness, Fun and Friends through Play Groups
• Out of the Box: Building a Unique Homemade Toy Chest
• Out With the Old: Ways to Recycle Toys
• Talk about it!

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