The New Year is approaching fast, and I’m hearing through the grapevine that many parents are finally ready for a fresh new start regarding the way their kids play.

Some are muttering, “I don’t want my kids to sit in front of the TV all day anymore.” Others are musing, “I really want to be more proactive about how my kids play.” Still others are saying, “I’m finally going to make — and stick to — some new and exciting creative play resolutions!”

Whatever your motivation, the simple fact is this: Creative, imaginative play is important. It stimulates the brain. It helps develop important life skills. And it creates enthusiasm. What’s not to like about it!

Here are a few suggestions for how to incorporate more creative play into your children’s daily lives:

• Spark the artist in your child. Be sure to have lots of different art mediums on hand. They could be as simple as crayons and coloring books, as varied as glitter and beads, or as elaborate as an award-winning art tower. The point is to give your kids a ready outlet for their creative juices. (Hey, even Monet had to start young!)

• Encourage your child’s domestic skills. Since so much time is spent in the kitchen (preparing meals, eating, cleaning up), it’s only natural kids would want to imitate those culinary activities. Either allow your kids to play with your own pots and pans, bowls and wooden spoons, or set up a well-made play kitchen. (Before you know it, your kids will want to start really helping in the kitchen. Read one of these CreativePlayPlus blog posts for further inspiration!)

• Support creative indoor play. Think outside the box. Instead of getting what every other kid on the block has, go for something unique, fun and  innovative. Think musical instruments,  adventure fort, indoor teepee (which is what I got my grandson for his last birthday), building set, baby nursery, or puppet theatre. Or just play plain make believe (using thrift store clothing for “costumes”) revolving around a circus, jungle safari, fairyland or magical castle. (But beware; the fun can be pretty contagious!)
• Make outdoor play inventive, too. Of course, balls, buckets and sidewalk chalk are super ideas. But there are plenty of other great choices as well, including a rock climbing wall, treehouse, play tent, sand and water activity center, bowling set and golf course. Also of note, an empty large-appliance box is the best! These will all keep your kids busy for hours on end. (After all, there’s nothing better for kids than fun games and fresh air!)
• Don’t forget the wee ones. There are lots of fascinating interactive toys out there for infants, too. Consider an activity gym, play mat, activity triangle, shape sorter or animal puzzle. Babies really respond to creative playthings. (Bonus: All these toys are well made, colorful, kid-tested, and mom-approved!)

Just remember, a New Year’s resolution for parents doesn’t have to be hard. When it involves quality play that captures your child’s imagination and encourages creativity, it should be easy to keep, unlike that annual vow to lose 10 pounds. Happy playing, everyone!

Suggested adult books about creative play:
Razzle Dazzle Doodle Art: Creative Play for You and Your Young Child by Linda Allison
365 Games Smart Toddlers Play by Sheila Ellison
Sing! Play! Create! by Sarah Cole
First Art: Art Experiences for Toddlers and Twos by MaryAnn F. Kohl
Preschooler’s Busy Book: 365 Creative Games & Activities by Trish Kuffner