There’s a big debate on social media about independent play vs. interactive play.

“Play is the work of children. It’s not our job to play with our kids!”

I see it all the time—hundreds of parents (who struggle with playfulness) jumping in and shouting, “Yes! THANK YOU! I hate playing, and now I don’t have to!”

You might be surprised to hear this…

…I don’t totally disagree.

Despite what it might look like on my Instagram, I’m not playing with my kids all day. Most of the time, they’re playing on their own.

And while I talk a lot about collaborative play, independent play is just as important in our home.

You won’t often catch me on the floor building with magnatiles or even coloring.

And if my son’s happily playing with his monster trucks, I’m not jumping in with, “Hey, I’ll be the red one!”

Kids don’t need us to interrupt like that.

AND, interactive play is a huge part of our family’s dynamic too.

It’s a joyful way to connect that really matters to the kids and is fun for us, too.

Is it the only way to connect? No.

But it’s a big one.

So, which is better? Independent or interactive play?

I just think it’s a silly question. They’re both wonderful for different reasons!😉

Here’s my invitation for you this week:

• When you see your child playing independently, stay curious from a distance. Just watch. It’s amazing what they process through play.

• If they invite you to join and you’re up for it, jump in without worrying that it’s disruptive.

Trust me, one type of play doesn’t cancel out the other.

Love,

Mia

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