Is Your Child Ready for a Successful Quiet Time Today?
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Have you ever noticed that despite a solid routine, there are just some days when you know your child is not going to have a successful quiet time? There’s a good reason and it is completely solvable.
Signs Your Child Is Ready For A Successful Quiet Time Today
Content and Settled
Can Manage Minor Frustrations on Their Own
Seeking Less Direct Interaction
Showing Interest in Their Toys, Books, and Materials
Signs Your Child Is Not Ready YET
Tantrums
Asking for Assistance with Skills They've Already Mastered
Whining
General Clinginess
If your child is not ready yet, here’s what you’re going to do to get them ready:
Try slowing down and offering a little more one-on-one connection.
Language tip:
Quiet Time feels hard today. Let’s start over. Before you go play on your own, let’s do a little more (pick one):
Have a Snack
Cuddle
Roughhouse
Take a Walk Outside
Here’s why:
When kids feel connected, they are more likely to have periods of successful independent play. I know this to be true from my many years of teaching families just like yours to implement solid quiet time and independent play routines. But this is also rooted in science. Attachment theory tells us that when children feel securely connected to their caregivers, they develop the confidence to explore and engage in independent play, knowing they have a safe base to return to. So, go ahead, grab a cuddle, and start over with your quiet time routine. You got this.
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If you want to create a home that is filled with play and creativity, the key is to let your child know how much you value the time and effort they spent playing.