How to get the most out of In Play In

Purpose of “In Play In”

The goal of In Play In is to give children a space to explore imaginative play while also providing you, as a parent or grandparent, an easy way to connect with them during these moments. It’s about making playtime both enjoyable and meaningful.

How to get the most out of “In Play In” - as the founder intended

1. Keep It in Sight, but Out of Reach

• Store In Play In on a coffee table or in another visible spot where your child can see it. Having it out in the open, yet not immediately in use, naturally piques their curiosity, making them more interested and excited to explore it with you.

2. Create a Clear, Tidy Space

• Before bringing out In Play In, ask your child to tidy up any other toys. This helps them focus on the new play experience and see it as something special.

3. Start Simple

• Begin with a simple activity like playing with a doll or toy car and start a conversation around it. This gently introduces the idea of imaginative play without putting any pressure on the child to start with In Play In.

4. Let the Child Take the Lead

• Encourage your child to explore In Play In naturally. It should feel like their decision to dive in. Listen closely to the story or game they create, and support it by expanding on their ideas.

5. Ask Open-Ended Questions

• Engage with their play by asking questions that open up their imagination:
  • “What will the animals eat today? Grass? Should we go gather some?”
  • “Does your doll have a favorite color or outfit? Maybe we can make her a new hat or dress!” 
  • “What vegetables are in your garden today? Should we pick some for dinner?”
  • “If we were cooking together, what kind of meal would we make with those ingredients?”
  • “How many sheep do you have? Did they all come home, or is one missing?”
  • “Is there anything missing from the farm or doll’s house? Should we create it together?”
  • “Where is your doll going on her adventure today? Does she need anything special for her trip?”
  • “If your toy car could travel anywhere, where would it go? Should we pack some snacks for the trip?”
  • “What should we build for the animals or dolls? A house? A garden? Maybe a playground?”
  • “Does your doll have a favorite color or outfit? Maybe we can make her a new hat or dress!"

These questions encourage them to think creatively, use ordinary objects in new ways, and build a story with you by their side.

6. Get Creative with DIY Projects

• Together, come up with small projects using household items like magazines or boxes. In Play In can transform these items into magical parts of the play session. But remember, one idea at a time—too many projects can overwhelm.

7. Celebrate Their Creations

• When your child creates something unique, affirm them! Show appreciation for their creativity, reinforcing their confidence in self-expression.

8. Brainstorm Together

• If they ask for your help, see it as as both a teaching and connection opportunity. Offer suggestions and brainstorm solutions together, guiding them while letting them steer the process. For example, if they want to build a “house” for their animals, you might suggest using a small box or cardboard tube. Then ask, “Should we add windows? Maybe we can cut out a door so they can go in and out.” This way, you’re sparking ideas without taking over, empowering them to create their own solutions.

9. Involve the Whole Family

• Get everyone involved if possible. Dad, Grandpa, or siblings might have ideas too, like how to make hay bales for the animals or crafting a reading light from a bottle cap. The shared playtime can create cherished memories for everyone.

10. Clean Up Together Every Night

• Before bedtime, help your child put In Play In neatly away. This establishes a sense of order and anticipation for the next day’s play.

11. Repeat and Refresh Daily

• Place In Play In back in a visible spot each evening—on the coffee table, under the couch, or another easy-to-see area—ready to inspire fresh ideas and new adventures the next day.

12. Be Present, Don’t Just Drop and Go

• Unlike toys that are meant to keep kids occupied while adults attend to other tasks, In Play In is designed to foster connection. Embrace it as an opportunity to actively engage with your child, making playtime a shared, meaningful experience where you both create lasting memories together. Remember, being present is the biggest gift we can give them—after all, time spent together is priceless