Playing with our children should be easy, right? We sit on the floor, take out some toys, and that's it. But sometimes, without realizing it, we end up interrupting their play, setting the pace, or even correcting them. And it's normal: adults come from a structured world, with rules, goals, and results. But children... they don't.
Here are some very common mistakes (yes, we've all made them) and how to avoid them so that the game is truly theirs.
1. Correcting how they play
"That doesn't go like that," "cars don't fly," "animals don't talk." Does that sound familiar? Sometimes we want the game to follow an adult logic, but the world of children is made of fantasy, trial and error. The best thing we can do is let them invent, mix, and transform. If a dinosaur wants to drive a motorcycle... go for it!
2. Wanting to teach all the time
Yes, playing is a wonderful opportunity to learn... but not all the time. If every game becomes a lesson ("let's count the wheels," "what color is this?", "how do you say it in English?"), they disconnect. Sometimes, just playing is enough.
3. Unconsciously directing the game
We start playing kitchen and, without realizing it, we've already set up a restaurant with shifts, a menu, and rules. It's great if they propose it, but if we're the ones in charge all the time... it's no longer their game. Try to follow their rhythm, observe what they want to do, and adapt to their universe.
4. Thinking we have to entertain them all the time
Being present doesn't mean being the day's entertainer. You can accompany in silence, observe, or simply be near while they play on their own. That calm presence also counts, and a lot.
5. Cutting off the game because "that's enough"
We know there are schedules, meals, and routines. But when a game is flowing, try not to interrupt it abruptly. You can anticipate the end ("in five minutes we're going to have dinner") or even let the game "sleep" to continue it the next day.
The important thing is not to be perfect, but to be present. Play is a wonderful way to connect, get to know each other, and enjoy together. And the more space we give them to play their way, the more they surprise us.
