Playing with Purpose. How Play Can Support Your Child’s Emotional Intelligence.
"Play is the work of children.” Jean Piaget
I love this quote. Play is the language that children speak and the way they learn. But did you know that by adulthood most of us have completely forgotten how to play? So, when we have children of our own many of us struggle to be playful or play with our children. I am passionate about changing this and helping parents find their playfulness.
Play helps us understand development
Through the different stages of play, we can gain an understanding of where our child is developmentally. So play is not “just childish” it is actually a way for us to intellectually understand our kids. So the next time your child is playing observe how they are playing, observe what the context is, and how they engage with themselves and those around them. I think you will be amazed by what you can learn about your child.
Play creates connection
Not only can play tell us where a child is developmentally, but it is also how we can connect with children. If play is the language of children, then using it will help our children understand us, themselves, and the world around them. So, the next time you feel like your child isn’t listening, try connecting playfully with them and see what happens. Play will not only support you with behavioral connection on the spot, but if you engage in only a few minutes of connected play with your children (no matter their age - yes even teens) you will find the day and weeks go smoother.
Play is a wonderful way to grow our emotional intelligence
This is because through play we can support our children in understanding their emotions, the emotions of others, social skills/interactions, empathy, practice regulation skills, and more. There is no limit to how you can use play to support the growth of your family’s emotional intelligence. In fact, one of my favourite ways to do this is by playing EQ Charades! It’s charades but you act out emotions, regulation skills, social skills, empathy, motivation, and anything that has to do with emotional intelligence. Then the whole family talks about the different scenarios after they are guessed. So, if you were struggling with how to incorporate play this weekend, give it a try! It works with all ages. Your toddler will surprise you with how well they can guess emotions.
Get in Touch
Play has a very significant purpose in the development and growth of children but it also promotes joy in all humans. We could all use a bit more joy these days. So happy playing! Do you have a favourite way to play in your home? Share it with me!
If you are ready for more, head to my course, Bringing Emotional Intelligence into the Home, to one of my webinars, or attend a live event.
🖤 Dr. H