Five Ways to Bond With Your Kids When You Don't Like to "Play"
Between hectic schedules and a never-ending to-do list, the phrase, “Play with me!” can feel daunting for some parents.
It’s not that you don’t want to prioritize time with your child, but the traditional sense of “playing” often feels awkward when you’ve outgrown this stage of your life and cumbersome when you have a million other things going on. When my kids were little, playing make-believe or Barbies felt like torture when I knew I had laundry piling up and dinner to cook.
Since going through my own parenting transformation and becoming a
parent coach, now I work with clients on how to embrace play, no matter what you have going on around you. Playing is our children’s love language and is a great way to bond with them. The good news is that bonding with your kids doesn’t have to feel like traditional playtime. This bonding and connection time fills their cup and sets you up for less whining for your attention later when you really have to get things done! Below are five creative ways to play with your children when you don’t feel like playing. Set a timer and try to give them your full attention.
- LEGO or
Magnatiles have always been a hit in our house. They allow your kids to get creative and you can direct the play if participating feels challenging. Ask them to build specific structures or vehicles while you sort the shapes and colors.
- For kiddos who are perpetual motion, get a large, light ball that you are comfortable having in the house. Sit on the couch and see how many times they can bounce it back and forth with you. Another fun game for these energetic kids is “Keepy Uppy.” (Special thanks to
Bluey for this classic!) Blow up a balloon, tap it back and forth and try not to let it touch the ground! This one is sure to get the giggles going and access your playful side.
- Instead of conventional
outdoor play, organize a nature scavenger hunt. This is one we adopted during pandemic times and still love. Create a list of items for your kids to find, such as specific leaves, rocks, or flowers. Encourage them to use their observation skills and work together as a team. This activity not only connects you with nature but also allows your children to learn about the environment and develop problem-solving abilities.
- Set up a fort with sofa cushions, or better yet, a
nugget couch if you have one! Drape a large sheet over the backs of kitchen chairs. Bring fairy lights, flashlights, snacks and books and read to them. Face it towards the TV and have a family movie night. This one is especially fun on those rainy days and fosters a sense of closeness and togetherness.
- Turn your home into a mini science laboratory and carry out simple experiments with your kids with things you probably already have in your pantry! Whether it's making volcanoes erupt with baking soda and vinegar or the wacky solid/liquid mixture, oobleck, science experiments can be incredibly engaging and enjoyable! These experiments are not only entertaining but also promote critical thinking and curiosity.
The key to making these activities enjoyable for both you and your children is to be present and enthusiastic. By participating wholeheartedly, you demonstrate to your kids that spending time together is valuable and cherished, even if it doesn't feel like traditional play.
If you're looking for more parenting support and tips to connect with your kids, start by getting my free tools to Connect for Cooperation HERE!
