How to Keep a Child Busy Playing Alone

You barely get a moment to yourself -- even going to the bathroom alone seems like a distant memory. Teaching your child to stay engaged while playing solo gives you some breathing room, but it also benefits him. He gains independence, explores his creativity and learns to become his own person, according to Ask Dr. Sears. It may take some time, but, with your encouragement, your child can learn to stay engaged during independent play.

Things You'll Need

  • Shelf
  • Toy box
  • Table
  • Open-ended toys

Instructions

    • 1

      Create a kid-friendly spot for play full of safe activities and toys for your child. His age affects what you include in this area. Young toddlers need more childproofing, such as no toys with little pieces. A shelf, toy box and table are examples of furniture that work well in the play area. Secure any freestanding furniture to the floor or wall so it doesn't tip.

    • 2

      Offer your child open-ended toys that she can use in a variety of ways. Examples of toys that encourage play include blocks, nonmotorized play vehicles, balls, dolls and dress-up clothes. Include other materials, such as art supplies, cardboard boxes and clay, for further creative exploration.

    • 3

      Rotate the toys and games you have available for your child. He may get bored if all of his toys are out constantly. Too many toys in one spot also makes it difficult to find one thing he wants to play with. Pack up part of his toys so he has fewer choices in his toy box. After a few weeks, pack up the toys on his shelf and get out the other toys you previously packed away.

    • 4

      Suggest a specific game or project that interests your child and will keep her occupied. Say ̶0;Here̵7;s an old box I don̵7;t need anymore. Would you like to turn it into a pretend car?̶1; Offer her the supplies she needs to complete the project.

    • 5

      Listen to your child when he asks you if he can do something instead of responding with an automatic "No." Decide if the request is something he can handle on his own. Building a blanket fort might mess up the living room temporarily, but, before you shoot down the idea, consider the entertainment he̵7;ll get from it. Those ideas he comes up with on his own are likely the ones that will keep him engaged the longest.

    • 6

      Check in with your child occasionally to show your interest and encourage her to continue playing. Ask her how the project is going. Suggest a new way she can play if she̵7;s starting to get bored.

    • 7

      Give your child visual or verbal reassurance to prevent separation anxiety. Set up in the far corner of the room where he̵7;s playing, for example, so he can still see you as he plays. If you̵7;re in the next room, call out to him occasionally so he knows you are still around.

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