Toddlers independent play is very important to children's brain development. This is the beginning of their space awareness and exploration. They begin to figure out the reasons for the things around them and the effect their action has on them.
Although independent play varies from child to child, crawling, standing and beginning to walk are the best signs that they are ready to play on their own because this is the time that their interest over things beyond themselves awakens.
At 12 months children are ready for building blocks and things that move when touched. This is also the time when they enjoy duplicating what they see and hear. Sound producing toys that they can imitate will be very interesting for them.
At two years old, their hand muscles are beginning to develop. They may begin using crayons, puzzles, non-toxic clays and more interesting and toddler-friendly toys, according to Bundoo.
However, it is important for parents to limit the number and variety of toys given during independent play as greater bigger diversity of toys lessens their chance to enhance their creativity.
"While kids need a few things in their room that they can play with - particularly things such as building blocks, coloring in pencils, books, dolls, cars, etc.—I have to say the more toys you give them, the less likely they are to be creative in their play," said Judith Locke, a child psychologist.
It may seem like guilt for parents to leave their children playing alone with their stuff, but it actually helps them when they are gradually allowed to explore the world on their own.
"If I have something to do I know that they will be OK to play for a while without me. I have always tried to give my children as many experiences as I can as they grow up," said Isabel De Bono, a mother of three. "Children are like sponges when they are young. They crave information. But they also enjoy exploring and finding out things on their own," she added, according to Kidspot.
Independent play does not only help in child development but it is his or her first step of preparation for the bigger world.
