Green Home Play Ideas
Play is the quintessential way children learn, explore, and discover their world. It’s through play that they stumble upon new interests and unearth hidden talents. With these home play ideas, your child’s playtime will be a journey of discovery and fun.
Play is the cornerstone of children’s development, fostering cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for parents to bond with their children. Despite its numerous benefits, children’s free play time is often overshadowed by screen time and stress. As parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure our children have ample opportunities to play.
Transform Everyday Home Items into Toys for Babies & Toddlers
You don’t need to rush to the store or browse Amazon for new toys. Your home is a treasure trove of potential playthings. If you’re unsure where to start, reminisce about your own childhood – what were your favorite indoor activities?
You’ll be surprised at how many household items can double as baby toys. Pots and pans can be stacked and banged on, while measuring spoons make a delightful clanging toy. The humble empty box often outshines the gift it contained, and empty hummus and salsa containers can be repurposed as bath toys. Even a laundry basket or a large box can become a fun fort or hideaway.
Indoor Skill-Boosting & ‘Quiet’ Play Ideas
When the weather confines your children indoors, you’ll need a repertoire of indoor activities to keep them engaged and quiet.
Play Dough Magic
Play dough has been a childhood staple for generations. It sparks creativity and can keep kids entertained for hours.
Coloring Books
A timeless activity that even adults enjoy. Coloring can provide quiet, focused playtime.
Grab a colouring book and some crayons, and you may easily sit quietly for an hour or more while colouring.
Read a Book
Incorporating reading into your child’s daily routine can be both fun and educational.
Play Educational Games On The Computer / Tablet
While we strive to limit screen time, educational games can be a valuable tool for quiet, engaging play.
Indoor Active Play Ideas
Being cooped up indoors with energetic children can be challenging. Experts recommend at least two hours of heart-pumping physical activity for children each day. Here are some ideas to keep your kids active indoors.
Animal Races
Challenge your kids to wheelbarrow, crab, and bear-walk races. Make it a fun competition to see who can finish the fastest.
Standard Fitness Routine
Involve your children in your workout. They can count your reps and then you can do the same for them.
Freeze Dance
Play a fun song and have the kids freeze when the music stops. This game is a great way to burn off energy.
Keep the Balloon Up
The goal is to keep a balloon in the air without letting it touch the ground. This game requires focus and can be a fun way to stretch.
Walk Like a Ballerina
Walking on the balls of your feet, like a ballerina, can improve balance and strengthen the core and legs.
Twister
This game is not only fun but also a great way to stretch, balance, and work up a sweat.
You can always make your own Twister game if you don’t have the real one!
Home Play Ideas In Closing
Play is a cherished aspect of childhood that offers key developmental benefits and allows parents to bond with their children. However, various factors are diminishing the opportunities for children to benefit from play.
As we strive to create the best environment for children’s development, it’s crucial to include play alongside academic and social enrichment opportunities, ensuring all children have access to safe play spaces.
