Extra-murals and Craft Tables - What About Unstructured Play?
Our world is constantly changing and we as adults, have become “achievement” obsessed. There seems to be a mindset of “a child needs to walk by a certain age” otherwise we’ve failed as parents.
A child needs to participate in swimming, ballet, soccer and any other extra murals you can think of so they don’t get left behind. “I need to set up a fancy craft table or create a mini-town to encourage play”. As parents we often “rush around”, then it’s homework time, bath time, supper and the day has vanished……
My first thought is, when did your little person have time to play? In recent years there has been a significant increase in childhood anxiety and meltdowns. I would like to suggest that one of the contributing factors is a lack of pure unstructured play. When your child has the opportunity to play - to be the boss of their own space and toys, they can relax and be themselves. This taps into one of our upcoming topics, play’s role in regulation.
My next question is, which of these extra-mural activities does your child enjoy? Yes - these activities may promote the development of particular skills but attending a well-rounded school or playgroup should provide all these opportunities too. If you feel your child needs more practice or stimulation in a certain area - by all means sign up for an additional activity but you certainly don’t need to attend all of the activities offered in your area. One or two activities a term is more than sufficient. Your little person is missing out when there is no time set aside for unstructured play.
Lastly, I want to raise the point of the parent feeling overwhelmed and guilty. Yes, sometimes parenthood can make you feel like you need eight octopus arms or that you need to cut yourself into three. There will be times of utter craziness! I want to encourage you to look carefully at what and how much you take on. What is manageable for your family? Your child does not need a setup craft table every afternoon or for you to set up a play space or game. Providing your child with a variety of toys, a safe space and time to explore these toys according to their interests will develop many valuable skills.
Prioritize unstructured play, prioritize creativity and prioritize regulation. Prioritize time each day for your child to be the captain of their ship!
Kelly Slater
Occupational Therapist