Updated: July 16, 2016
Originally Published: July 16, 2016
I engage in many activities with my children, but I firmly believe in providing them with ample free time. I don’t jam-pack our schedules, I rarely join them at the playground, and I seldom offer suggestions on how they can entertain themselves. Instead, I encourage them to think creatively about how to occupy their time. If they express boredom, I remind them that it’s up to them to find something interesting to do. At times, I simply give them space and observe from a distance. They don’t always need my direction; after all, how will they learn to think independently? Some of their most cherished memories have stemmed from moments when I allowed them the freedom to explore.
After years of nurturing my little ones through breastfeeding, cuddling, and sleepless nights, it was a relief when they were old enough to entertain themselves for a while. I vividly remember the first time my eldest discovered the joy of the Tupperware drawer. He spent nearly an hour taking everything out and putting it back in. It was pure bliss! I savored strawberries while chatting on the phone with my friend. Encouraged by the joy it brought us both, I frequently foster this type of independent play.
As parents, we already do so much. Free time is a crucial element in fostering a happy home. It’s a precious gift when we can engage in activities that don’t require strict guidelines or planning. Allowing my kids free time has benefited both them and me in numerous ways.
It Fosters Independence.
It’s rewarding to witness my children tackle and solve their own problems. I’ve seen them face challenges and take a moment to think about potential solutions. I strive to resist jumping in with questions (though sometimes it’s hard) because interruptions can derail their thought processes. If I remain patient, I often discover their creative solutions on my own. Their pride is palpable, like the time my son figured out that giving our dog a stick would keep him distracted while he practiced his golf swing.
It Provides Me Freedom.
While I enjoy spending time with my kids, I also need moments to recharge. I lack the energy to be fully engaged in their activities all the time. Just like every mother I know, I require downtime. When I declare it’s free time, that includes me as well. It doesn’t mean they can’t talk to me or ask for help if needed; it just means I’ll be reading, writing, or knitting while they play. This way, we all feel revitalized and better equipped to handle challenges like bedtime (though we still struggle with that sometimes).
It Encourages Sibling Bonds.
Since we don’t have a packed schedule, my kids have learned they can’t rely on me to play with them. They end up finding ways to entertain themselves together. Knowing they have an entire day ahead, they often opt to play alongside each other rather than alone. Of course, they still have their squabbles, but when I step back, they tend to resolve conflicts much quicker than if I intervened.
It Sparks Imagination.
Free time nurtures their creativity. Watching my children immerse themselves in their own world—like pretending to be superheroes saving ladybugs—is enchanting. It’s something I cannot create for them; it’s a natural part of who they are.
It Cultivates Fun.
Without a rigid schedule or constant busyness, they aren’t always searching for the next exciting activity. I’ve noticed how overwhelming it can be when we have too many plans, especially during vacations. We all end up caught in the “What’s next?” cycle, leading to crankiness from both kids and adults.
I Love Watching.
I find joy in simply observing my children as they play and laugh together, zipping down the street on their bikes. While I occasionally join in, I’m perfectly content to sit nearby, nurturing my own hobbies or just being an audience to their play. They often engage with each other more deeply when I’m not directly involved, likely because they lack someone to complain to.
Life can get busy, and while I attempt to maintain a balanced schedule for both their sake and mine, I treasure the moments spent in quiet exploration. There’s nothing quite like losing oneself in a good book, observing ants at work, or doodling in a coloring book. Free time allows my kids to simply be kids, without the pressure of a packed schedule. They have plenty of time ahead to rush around and discuss their busy lives, but their childhood shouldn’t be one of those times.
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of allowing children free time to foster independence, creativity, and sibling bonds while providing parents with necessary downtime. Encouraging kids to find their own entertainment helps them develop problem-solving skills and strengthens their relationships with each other. Free time is essential for a happy home and allows children to truly enjoy their childhood without the pressure of a busy schedule.