During the COVID-19 Pandemic, quarantined parents have a lot on their plates. The internet is full of wonderful activities to use to teach and amuse young children.  This is great, but not completely necessary.  Children have the innate ability to play, and it's in that play time that they learn endless skills such as problem solving, independence, confidence, and self-regulation.  Their play can soothe them and help them process their thoughts and feelings about everything they're experiencing during this global crisis.  They need to play.  Parents need a break.  No time like now to help your child happily entertain themselves.

As a play therapist, I'm trained to support a child's natural ability to process and heal.  I don't tell them how to do it, I notice what comes naturally to them, and I support them through it. I use this same approach to encourage independent play in my three young kids.

Here are some tips to get your kid playing happily...