Simple tips for encouraging creative play

There’s no doubt that playtime is an important part of your toddler’s development. Not only is this a fun activity, but it helps your little one learn and explore the surrounding world. Creative play is particularly beneficial for your kid’s mental and emotional growth. Here are a few ways to encourage imaginative playtime with your toddler.

Know when you’re needed
One of the most important parts of imaginative play is that you know when to join in and when to back off. While your little one may enjoy having you there playing with toys as well, true creative playtime often means leaving your toddler to exercise his or her imagination solo.

Use household items
Creativity can only go so far when using standard children’s toys, so consider providing your little one with some basic household objects to enjoy. Whether it’s a cardboard box, a few pots and pans or a measuring tape, let your child create new possibilities for these items.

Create a storyline
If it looks like your child may need a little help getting into a creative groove, consider helping to come up with a storyline. You could begin narrating an adventure of a brave knight exploring a castle made of blocks or a mythical creature living in a deep lake to get the ball rolling. Once your little one has caught on to the story, let him or her take over the action.