play

Play: the engine of development and joy 

How nice that you're reading along again!

With my blogs, I want to support parents in parenting and raising their children. Because even though it can sometimes be challenging, parenting is also something to enjoy. Try not to see obstacles as problems, but as phases that are simply part of the journey. Enjoy reading this blog! 

What is play, really?

Playing may seem simple, but it is a rich and valuable activity. It is a form of relaxation in which children—sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously—combine different skills. Sometimes there are rules, and sometimes there is complete freedom. There may be competition, but also imagination and pretend play.

Play is spontaneous, enjoyable, and meaningful. It invites children to actively participate in their environment—and therefore also in their own development.

Why is play so important?

Play has a tremendous influence on a child's development. Through play, a child learns to:

• Solve problems and think creatively
• Think ahead and plan
• Cooperate and deal with emotions
• Develop language and communication skills
• Improve physical abilities, both gross motor skills (running, jumping) and fine motor skills (building, drawing)

Even later in life—even as adults—play helps keep our brains active and healthy. It stimulates the release of endorphins, the so-called happiness hormones, and helps reduce stress.

Functional play: play with a purpose

When play is aimed at developing specific skills, we call it functional play. For example:

• Gross motor skills: climbing, running, throwing balls
• Fine motor skills: drawing, crafting, building with LEGO or DUPLO
• Cognitive development: sorting shapes, doing puzzles
• Emotional development: acting out events, such as a visit to the doctor
• Social skills: role-playing games such as "playing house" or pretending to run a shop

Play also helps children process their fears. For example, if your child is afraid of the neighbor's dog, they can act out this situation with an action figure or a stuffed toy. By replaying the situation, the child can learn to understand the fear and gradually learn how to cope with it.

Toys that match your child's development:

Gross motor skills: ball, baby gym, baby swing, walker, baby bike

Fine motor skills: craft kits, DUPLO toys.

My experience as a mother

With three sons, I saw every day how unique children's play behavior can be.

My oldest son was curious and creative from a young age—by the age of three he was already building complex constructions with LEGO.
My middle son preferred movement: he loved playing with balls and toy cars, and enjoyed racing and rolling around.
My youngest son had a vivid imagination. He could spend hours playing with train tracks and inventing stories with his toys.

Those differences in play styles have always stayed with me. Now that they are adults, I can see how their interests in play have influenced their study and career choices.

A frequently asked question: what toys suit my child?

As a parent, I was often asked: "What is the best toy for my child?"
My answer was always: look at your child's stage of development and interests.
A few examples:

• A 4-month-old baby begins to babble and seek social interaction. A soft cuddly toy with big eyes and a friendly smile invites interaction.
• A 3-year-old child is deeply engaged in imaginative play. A toy tea set is perfect for "serving tea" to dolls, stuffed animals, or parents.

Once you understand where your child is in their development, choosing suitable toys becomes much easier—and more enjoyable.

 Finally

Play is not a luxury or just a way to pass the time. It is the language of the child and essential for growth, self-confidence, and happiness. By giving children the space to play, you give them the space to discover who they are.

Thank you for reading.
Take good care of yourself, be yourself, and care for your child with love.
Until next time!

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