We’ve already explored the benefits of independent play - now let’s talk about how to encourage and support it.

When children play on their own, they tap into their imagination, build resilience, and strengthen problem-solving skills. But as parents and caregivers, guiding them toward independent play isn’t always straightforward - especially in a world full of distractions and packed schedules. The good news? You don’t need a house full of toys or endless free time. Just a few thoughtful changes can make a big difference.

Here are six simple, practical ways to encourage independent play and creativity at home or in childcare centres:

Create an Inviting Play Space

Children are more likely to engage in deep, independent play when their environment is calm, safe, and well-organised. You don’t need an elaborate setup or a dedicated room - just a small, cozy corner where the child feels comfortable and inspired.

Think: low shelves with baskets of toys, a soft mat or rug, and good natural light. The key is to keep it clutter-free and accessible. Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and interesting, and avoid overstimulating the space with too many colours or noisy gadgets.

Fill the space with materials that invite creativity: wooden blocks, animal figurines, toy cars, dolls, or art supplies like crayons and paper. Keep everything at the child’s level so they can explore freely, without needing constant help.

Choose Open-Ended Toys

Not all toys are created equal. Some do all the talking (literally), while others invite the child to take the lead. That’s why open-ended toys are a must when it comes to encouraging creative, independent play.

Open-ended toys are those that can be used in many different ways depending on the child's interests and imagination. Think building blocks, play silks, magnetic tiles, stacking cups, peg dolls, or loose parts like wooden rings and felt balls.

These toys don’t have a single “right” way to play. A silk cloth might become a superhero cape one minute and a picnic blanket the next. A set of wooden blocks can become a zoo, a spaceship, or a castle. When kids get to decide how to use a toy, they feel empowered to create and problem-solve—no batteries required.

Avoid Over-Scheduling

Between school, activities, errands, and family commitments, modern kids often have packed schedules. But creativity thrives in the quiet moments. That’s why it’s important to build in unscheduled, open-ended time where the child can simply play.

When children have space in their day with nothing specific to do, they may initially feel bored. That’s okay! Boredom is often the first step to imaginative play. It gives children the chance to tap into their inner world, dream up ideas, and create their own fun.

Try carving out at least 30 minutes to an hour each day where the child can play without direction, devices, or structured tasks. This might mean a quiet morning before school, a calm hour after lunch, or a tech-free evening wind-down. You’ll be surprised what they come up with when they’re given the chance.

Model Creativity in Play (Then Step Back)

One of the best ways to encourage independent play is to play with the child - at least to start. By engaging alongside them, you can model creative thinking, demonstrate how to use materials, and help them see the possibilities in their play.

For example, you might build a block tower together or draw a picture side by side. This sets the stage and builds confidence. But the real magic happens when you step back. Let them take over. You might say, "I love how you're doing this—I'm going to make a cup of tea now, but I can't wait to see what you build next!"

Your presence can be reassuring, but your absence tells them: "You’ve got this."

Resist the urge to jump in or correct their play. There’s no wrong way to imagine, and giving them the freedom to explore is what leads to longer, deeper play sessions.

Praise the Process, Not the Product

It’s natural to want to celebrate the child’s creations - a detailed drawing, a carefully stacked tower, a made-up story. But if we only praise the final product, we miss an opportunity to build a deeper love of play.

Instead, focus your praise on the effort, curiosity, and creativity the child shows while playing. Say things like:

"You worked really hard to figure that out!"

"I love how you used those blocks in a new way."

"You kept trying even when it was tricky."

"That was such a fun idea you came up with!"

This kind of encouragement helps kids value the process of playing, creating, and problem-solving - not just the outcome. And when children are intrinsically motivated, they’re more likely to engage in play for the joy of it.

Limit Screens & Passive Entertainment

We live in a digital world, and screens are a part of life. But too much screen time - especially passive entertainment like videos or apps that do all the work - can stifle a child’s natural creativity.

When children are constantly entertained, they don’t get the chance to generate their own ideas. Their imagination muscles weaken. That’s why it’s important to set healthy limits on screens and make room for unplugged play.

This doesn’t mean banning screens completely. It just means being intentional. You might set screen-free times during the day (like before breakfast or after school), create a screen-free zone (like the playroom or dining table), or use a timer to limit daily usage.

Use that screen-free time to gently guide the child back into independent, open-ended play. With time, they’ll learn to rely on their imagination instead of a screen to stay engaged.

Encouraging independent play isn’t about leaving the child to their own devices or expecting them to entertain themselves for hours. It’s about creating the right conditions for their imagination to take root and grow.

By curating a play-friendly space, offering open-ended toys, making time for unstructured play, and giving lots of encouragement, you’re helping children build lifelong skills—creativity, confidence, and the ability to find joy in their own ideas.

So next time you hear, "I'm bored," take it as a sign: their imagination is just getting warmed up.