Play is one of the primary ways children communicate. And though there are wonderful benefits with adult-led activities, it is vital for children’s development to engage in play that is open-ended as well. This means no plan, no structure, just PLAY! 

According to Katie Taylor and our friends at Child Life On Call, here are five amazing benefits that open-ended play can provide:

• Encourages creativity and imagination
• Supports language development
• Strengthens problem-solving skills
• Helps build confidence
• Develops fine and gross motor skills

The best part about open-ended play is you can join, too! 

Allow the child to lead. 

Observe out loud (for example, “I see the truck is going over that bridge”). 

Ask open-ended questions (for example, “What do you think would happen if…”) and watch their imagination bloom!