Last time the question was, “What play will you encourage this year?”

Ask yourself the following questions: Do you like what you see in the way that your children play? Were you surprised about any developments in 2009? Would you like to change anything in 2010?

This is a list that you should revisit throughout the year. Use it to get yourself back on track if you feel a loss of focus. Not everything will be smooth sailing this year, but creating this list will anchor your thoughts. It will remind you of where you want to be.

As you learn more about what is age appropriate play for your children, your thoughts will grow and change. It is OK to change your mind. Change is good but don’t let it derail you completely.

Set goals with these questions in mind:

1. Which toys did they play with the most?

2. Which toys did they really want but when they got them didn’t really like much anymore?

3. Were there any surprise hits with toys or activities this past year?

4. How do they respond to changing toys or activities you’ve introduced? keen—————reluctant

5. Is there enough time allocated to a) downtime?  b) one on one time? c) independent play?

6. What’s our ratio of active play to passive play?

7. What multiple sources do we get our play knowledge from?

This last one is a big one: What do you want to try this year?

Some healthy play habits to consider:

• eat meals together as a family

• family night

• board games

• playdough

• making crafts

• joining a mother and toddler class

• learning some songs

• making felt toys

• being more present in the moment

• learning about Waldorf or Montessori play

• start a nature group

• play outdoors

• watch less TV

• less time on the phone or computer

• learn a new language with your child

• visit more local places

• Investigate cultural activities

• Get to a museum,

• initiate more play dates,

• seek out new play ideas,

• less or more time on after school children activities

• Be inspired and act on play ideas

• listen and be supported by parenting podcasts,

• find time for unstructured play,

• sort the toys,

• donate and spring clean the toy box………

What is on your agenda this year for play with your children?