12 Things Parents Can Do Everyday With Their Children

3. Play With Them

Play is so important for kids, and we understand that parenting is already hectic as hell, but even a few minutes of playing with your child really does make all the difference to them.

So even if you’re busy, try and carve some time out to play charades, board games, hide and seek, Simon says or even a few games of catch outside. If you’re in the car, begin a game of I Spy or 20 Questions. Be present in the moment to play with your child, and make it clear to them that you’re there, and you’re happy to be involved in the game.

4. Open Your Imagination

Kids are inherently imaginative in their lives, and it’s up to parents to really help that to flourish. As with play, the best way to be involved in helping your child develop their imagination is to be a part of it.

Play pretend games with them, from tea parties to teddy bear rescue missions. Have little pretend games that happen around the house, like that their toys are moving around without them, or that your dog is having a conversation with you. Even little things like pretending to catch their kisses and pop them on your cheek are like magic to kids, and make such a difference.

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Clare Whitfield Chief Editor

Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney, she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

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