Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we forget how to play. Responsibilities pile up, schedules fill, and the simple act of playing, without purpose, without an end goal, feels like a luxury we no longer have time for. But here’s the truth: play isn’t just for children. It’s for parents too, and embracing it again can change the way you connect with your child, reduce stress, and even bring more joy into your daily life.
Play Isn’t Just for Kids—It’s for You Too
We often see play as something we facilitate for our children, setting up activities, watching from the sidelines, and ensuring they’re entertained. But what if we shifted our mindset? What if we saw play as something we participate in, something that nourishes us just as much as it does our children?
Research has shown that play is essential for mental well-being, creativity, and even physical health. It boosts dopamine levels, relieves stress, and strengthens relationships. When we join in the play, we’re not just giving our children attention, we’re actively connecting with them in a way that words alone can’t achieve.
The Science of Play and Why It Matters for Parents
Neuroscience backs this up. Play stimulates the brain’s reward system, releasing endorphins that improve mood and increase resilience to stress. It’s why children seem so carefree and why, when we allow ourselves to play, we feel lighter and more at ease.
Dr. Stuart Brown, a leading researcher in the science of play, explains that adults who engage in play regularly experience better problem-solving skills, reduced anxiety, and even improved relationships. Play isn’t just about fun, it’s about staying mentally and emotionally healthy. We incorporate play-based learning, ensuring that both children and parents see play as a vital part of development and connection at our Kindergarten in Dubai.
How to Bring Play Back Into Your Life
The good news? You don’t need a specific skill set or a structured activity. Relearning play is about letting go of expectations and embracing the moment. Here’s how:
1. Get on their level.Instead of watching from the sidelines, sit down on the floor, build the tower, or jump into the imaginary world they’ve created.
2. Say yes more often.It’s easy to say, “Not now” or “Maybe later” when your child invites you to play. But next time, try saying yes, even for five minutes. You might be surprised at how much fun you have.
3. Play how you love to play.Not into dolls? That’s fine! Maybe you love board games, crafts, or making up silly songs. Find the kind of play that excites you too.
4. Let go of structure.Play isn’t about getting it ‘right.’ It’s about having fun, laughing, and enjoying time together. Release the pressure to make it educational or productive.
5. Be fully present.Put the phone down, step away from the to-do list, and allow yourself to be in the moment. Children can sense when we’re half-heartedly engaging. Give them the gift of your full attention.
The Lasting Impact of Play on Parenting
When parents allow themselves to play, something shifts. Stress levels drop, laughter becomes more frequent, and the parent-child bond deepens. Play reminds us that parenthood isn’t just about teaching, it’s about experiencing, growing, and rediscovering joy alongside our children.
So next time your child asks you to dance in the kitchen, build a fort, or pretend to be a pirate, don’t hesitate. Say yes. Embrace the silliness. Let yourself enjoy the moment. Because play isn’t just for them, it’s for you too. At our kindergarten in Dubai, we encourage parents to continue this spirit of play at home, making childhood—and parenthood—a time of joy, connection, and learning.