How to Build Your Own Independent Playtime

A guide for kids to create their own fun and build confidence by playing independently. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Choose your mission. Decide what kind of play you want to do. Will you build a tall tower, draw a map of a pretend island, or read a story to your stuffed animals? Pick one activity to start so you can focus your energy.
2. Gather your supplies. Collect everything you need for your mission and bring it to your chosen spot. Having everything nearby helps you stay in the 'zone' without needing to get up and look for things.
3. Set your timer. Ask a grown-up to help you set a timer for 10 or 15 minutes. Knowing how long you have helps you commit to your project. When the timer goes off, you can decide to keep playing or try something else.
4. Dive into the fun. Start your activity and let your imagination take over. If you get stuck, look at your materials in a new way—maybe your building blocks could become a fence for your toy animals instead of a tower.