Day care helps your little one increase their socialization skills and amplifies their early childhood learning experience. While kids' activities in the center often include games completed in groups, independent play is also critical for development. However, this concept can seem objectionable to adults who believe it involves leaving their youngsters alone for hours. If you're a new parent, use the guide below to familiarize yourself with this idea.

How Does Independent Playing Benefit Children?

This method allows a child to express their creativity and explore their imagination without influence or guidance from parents, day care staff, or peers. Being comfortable playing alone also establishes a sense of ease without supervision, thus increasing your little one's social independence.

With this practice, you can even expect to see a boost in your child's confidence, as they will master skills without assistance. They will also further develop their problem-solving abilities and learn to build patience and self-regulate.

What Are Some Examples of It?

There are several ways to allow children to play on their own. Popular activities that help with logical thinking are puzzles and blocks. 

On the other hand, drawing with coloring books, playing pretend with stuffed animals and dolls, and reading picture books will encourage their creativity. For more physical activities, let your child play in a sandbox, toss a beach ball, or ride a scooter or bicycle in a safe, confined area. 

How Can You Encourage This in Your Children?

At first, your young child could resist playing alone and ask for you or their siblings to join them. Instead of agreeing to their request, encourage them to play alone for only a few minutes. The length of time will depend on their age. For example, a 2-year-old should play for four to 10 minutes, while a 4-year-old can play for up to 20 minutes.

Many parents see success with this method when they sit side-by-side and watch their children draw or play with a puzzle. Once your little one gets immersed in their activity, start moving away. Try not to hover, and give them a safe environment to play in and explore their imagination. Childproofing a bedroom or creating a safe playroom will help encourage independent play.

If you're looking for a day care that encourages both independent and group play, turn to Northern Lights Preschool & Child Care. Located in Anchorage, AK, this child care center has provided a safe, dependable, and loving educational environment for over two decades. Their preschool program also tailors lessons to your little one's learning style. To schedule a tour, call today at (907) 274-2040. For more information on their programs, visit their website.