Hey there, wonderful mama!
Between packing lunches, finding missing socks, and juggling work and home life, moms are true multitasking pros. Still, even superheroes deserve five quiet minutes to themselves, ideally with a cup of coffee that stays hot or cold.
Independent play can help make that happen.
At Allen Rose, we believe independent play builds creativity, confidence, and focus in children, while giving parents a much needed pause. With the right toys and a simple setup, kids can explore on their own and you can enjoy a calmer moment in your day.
Below are five simple, realistic ways to encourage independent play at home, without relying on screens.
1. Set the Stage for Independent Play
Children play best when their environment feels inviting and uncluttered. Instead of directing how to play, create a calm space that encourages curiosity and exploration.
A few intentional toys support longer and more meaningful play than an overflowing toy bin.
Try this:
Create a small play area using Stapelstein® stepping stones and a wooden loose parts basket. These open ended toys allow children to build, stack, balance, and imagine freely.
2. Choose Open Ended Toys That Grow With Your Child
Open ended toys support independent play by allowing children to use their imagination in new ways each time they play. These toys adapt to your child’s developmental stage and stay relevant longer.
Allen Rose favorites for open ended play:
- Stapelstein® for stacking, balancing, sorting, and movement based play
- Wooden stacking toys that become towers, bridges, or pretend play props
- b is for ball®, a sensory toy for babies that continues to inspire creative play as kids grow
- Bunny Hopkins, designed for imaginative, open ended play that encourages storytelling and creative exploration
3. Rotate Toys to Reduce Overwhelm
Too many toys at once can overwhelm children and limit focus. A simple toy rotation helps maintain interest and encourages deeper play.
Pro tip:
Keep five to six toys available and store the rest away. Rotate toys every one to two weeks to keep playtime fresh.
4. Allow Boredom to Spark Creativity
Boredom is often the starting point for independent play and imagination. Giving children space to problem solve on their own helps build confidence.
Encouraging phrases to use:
- “What could you build with that?”
- “I know you will think of something fun.”
- “Show me what you make when I am done with my coffee.”
5. Model Play, Then Step Back
Independent play develops with practice. Start by playing alongside your child to introduce a toy, then slowly give them space to continue on their own.
Try this:
Spend five minutes playing together, then say, “Now it’s your turn,” and step away while they continue exploring.
Independent Play Benefits Both You and Your Child
Independent play helps children build creativity, patience, and problem solving skills. It also gives parents small moments of rest during busy days.
At Allen Rose, we curate toys that support independent play, creativity, and real life with kids.
Shop our favorite toys for independent play and create calmer, more intentional play moments at home.