Dear Lizzie,
This year, my child’s eyes lit up with each gift they unwrapped at Christmas, but now those same toys seem forgotten, gathering dust in the corner. It’s frustrating to see, and I’m not sure how to encourage them to play with their new toys. Do you have any advice?
Dear reader,
Ah, the post-holiday toy dilemma! One minute, your living room looks like a toy store, and the next, it’s as if the toys have become invisible to your little one. I have two words for you — toy overload. It’s natural for kids to feel overwhelmed when faced with too many choices. Imagine walking into a room full of every dessert you love — where do you even start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a few simple steps you can take to get your littles playing productively.
Step one: Unpack and organize the toys for your child. For example, for puzzles, replace the bulky boxes with clear bags and a picture of the completed puzzle. For magnetic tiles, take them out of the clumsy box they came in and stack them at your child’s eye level. This reduces the initial overwhelm and makes it easier for your child to pick and start an activity.
Step two: A toy on a shelf is just an object, but a toy laid out and ready to play becomes an adventure waiting to happen. Before your child returns from school or wakes up, set up a simple invitation to play. Place a puzzle on a table with a few pieces connected, or set their new doll on a blanket with accessories nearby. These small touches can transform a toy from overlooked to irresistible.
Step three: Remember that your kids love to be where you are. If their toys are put away in a basement playroom, they will be less likely to play with them. Instead of the playroom, carve out a small corner of your kitchen or living room for play. This proximity can subtly encourage them to start playing. Set them up to play with a toy at the counter where you are preparing dinner. Be present, but not directly involved, allowing them to explore their play independently.
Next time you’re tempted to say, “You have so many toys, go play!” keep these tips in mind. By reducing overwhelm, creating inviting play setups and being present in their play area, you’re not just encouraging play. You’re nurturing their ability to engage and explore independently. Consistently apply these strategies for a few days, and you might just be surprised at how naturally your child develops a routine of independent play.
Good luck!
