The Power of Play

Play as Self-Care & the play-to-break ratio

By: Elizabeth Burk, Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #122958

Under Supervision of Sarah Jane Cella, LMFT#105989

One of the most stressful aspects of parenting is the demands on a parent’s time and attention. Creating individual space for the parent can be a challenge, logistically and emotionally. With the infant, toddler, and preschool group this can be especially hard. Fortunately, dedicating intervals of concentrated time to playing with children can create opportunities for restorative mini-breaks throughout a parent’s day.

Being intentional with attention allows children to feel connected, which in turn encourages the enjoyment of self play. To start, try a 10:10 ratio. Dedicate 10 minutes of uninterrupted parent-child play and then disengage for 10 minutes to take a break. For baby this may be 10 minutes of singing together, followed by 10 minutes of solo time on a playmate. For the preschooler this could be 10 minutes of hide-and-seek, followed by 10 minutes of solo coloring. The key is the connection prior to the break, which helps children feel secure in the independence.

“The split focus is exhausting. I just need a minute to return an email or even just to think. But I end up feeling guilty.”

Overall finding healthy ways to balance the emotional needs of both child and parent create connection and alleviate distress. Even taking small steps to ensure emotional wellness ultimately benefits the entire family. Sometimes the challenge is knowing how to achieve this goal. Parents don’t have to do this alone! A mental health professional can provide additional family support, especially during the challenges present in early childhood.