Every child needs to play alone: Here is why you should encourage it

There is always someone to play with kids. Starting from siblings and friends to parents, there’s hardly any dearth of play pals for them. However, the scenario may have changed now with the COVID-19 lockdown. Are you worried that your child has to play alone for a long these days? Well, the impact of inadequate social interaction on kids is a genuine concern. While it is necessary for them to interact with peers, the value of solo play cannot be undermined. Experts say that time with the self, offers children a lot of learning opportunities. This is the time when they explore the world around them at their own pace, become self-reliant and pick up many life skills. Here are 4 reasons to encourage children to play alone.  

Solo play teaches independence 

Social interaction is necessary but it is crucial for kids to learn to love their own company. Solo play sessions help kids do just that while inculcating a strong sense of independence in them. The ability to be happy with the self saves them from boredom when there is no one around. Playing alone will help your child grow up into a well-rounded individual who is not socially dependent and can be comfortable in any situation. However, make sure that there is a fair balance of solo play and social interaction.  

Fosters imagination 

A child’s mind is the hub of imagination. However, kids are not always able to tap their own potential when it comes to creative thinking. Playing alone will help your child explore herself effectively, allowing her to delve deep into the untrodden labyrinths of her mind. As she spends time with herself in her own little way without any external interference, you will see her coming up with unique characters and play situations that wouldn’t have emerged without solo play.  

Encourages self-entertainment 

When your kid plays by himself, he finds out ways to have fun on his own. That’s how children learn to generate happiness from within without having to count on others. This is an essential life skill that will help him cope with loneliness as an adult. Solo play also helps children become self-contained individuals.  

Promotes calmness 

While playing with others, alone, kids get to interact a lot. However, group activities hardly allow the time and mind space for a calm, inward journey. The calmness of solo play boosts the power of self-introspection in children, which is necessary for personal development.