top of page
Search

Let’s Play!

Child-led play ensures that activities are both developmentally appropriate and emotionally safe, reducing frustration and increasing opportunities for success. In this image a child uses a paper towel tube to look at their caregiver who is leaning on the counter across from them.
Child-led play ensures that activities are both developmentally appropriate and emotionally safe, reducing frustration and increasing opportunities for success. In this image a child uses a paper towel tube to look at their caregiver who is leaning on the counter across from them.

Engaging in play with your child is not only a joyful way to connect but also a critical part of their development from an occupational therapy perspective. Play is a child’s primary occupation- it is how they learn, explore, and make sense of the world around them. When caregivers actively participate in play, they provide rich opportunities for children to practice essential skills such as fine and gross motor coordination, sensory processing, problem solving, and emotional regulation. For example, building with blocks can strengthen muscles and build spatial awareness, while pretend play fosters creativity, language development, and flexible thinking. Shared play also promotes social skills like turn-taking, cooperation, and understanding others’ perspectives. Most importantly, play nurtures the parent-child bond, giving children a secure foundation that supports confidence, resilience, and engagement in other meaningful daily activities such as school, self-care, and friendships. By valuing and participating in play, caregivers can help their children grow across physical, cognitive, and emotional domains in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.


Following your child’s lead in play and meeting them where they are at is essential for supporting meaningful engagement and development. When caregivers allow children to guide the play, it communicates respect for their interests, choices, and abilities, which in turn fosters confidence and intrinsic motivation.


From an occupational therapy perspective, child-led play ensures that activities are both developmentally appropriate and emotionally safe, reducing frustration and increasing opportunities for success. Meeting your child at their current skill level allows you to scaffold new challenges in a supportive way—gently stretching their abilities without overwhelming them. This approach not only builds trust and strengthens your connection but also helps children develop problem-solving skills, self-advocacy, and a sense of

mastery. By tuning in to their cues and following their pace, you create a play environment that is both enjoyable and therapeutic, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and resilience.


Here are some additional resources and ways for you to reflect on play at home!


Written by Rachel Ward, OTD, OTR/L

Comments

bottom of page