Playing is very important in child development.
A child who does not explore with his mouth at six months does not stimulate his curiosity. Those who do not play hide-and-seek at 18 months or two years have difficulty being separated from their parents at daycare or school. Children who refuse to dress up around four or five years of age will be less confident in their identity.
These are the conclusions of psychoanalyst Sophie Mariopoulos. She is also the author of Dites-moi comment il joue et je vous dirai comment il va (Tell Me How He Plays and I’ll Tell You How He Is).
She said playing is a good way to measure the psychological and emotional state of your toddler.
Playing is normally associated with children because it is one of their favourite things to do. But never forget that each child develops at their own pace as well.
She says if you don’t have fun playing with your toddler, get a friend or other family member to do it. Playing should be fun and not a chore or the child will sense your frustration and be affected by it.