"You and Me Moments" with your kiddos.

I am over at Here today talking about setting one-on-one dates with your kiddos. In therapy terms- we call it Filial Therapy or Child Parent Relationship Therapy. It is where the parent sets up special play dates with their child on a weekly basis. If done consistently and appropriate, it can have so many benefits for both the parent and child: 

Benefits for child:

Understand and communicate feelings more openly

Be more confident in asking and telling parents what they need

Increase self-esteem

Feel more secure with parents

Benefits for Parent:

Finding joy in playing

More understanding of their child's needs and worries

Increasing listening and communication skills

Closer relationship with their child

To get started:

1. Collect a variety of toys and art supplies and place them in a bin. The toys in this bin are to be saved for the “Special Play dates.”  Below is a list of recommended toys. 
2. Set a consistent time and find an uninterrupted place in your home suitable for playing without distractions. Make sure it is a place where you aren’t worried of things getting a bit messy.
3. Make a sign to put on the door for everyone to know that there is a “You & Me” moment occurring.

What toys should you look for putting in your toy box?

Real-life toys:

-small baby doll

-nursing bottle

-doctor kit

-toy phone

-car/truck

-kitchen dishes w/pretend food

-play  money

-animals different sizes

-puppets

-dress up

-magic wand

Aggressive Toys:

-dart guns

-toy soldiers

-rubber knife

-foam sword

-handcuffs

-rope

-Nerf guns

-handcuffs

-rope

Creative/emotional expression

-play dough

-crayons

-paper

-scissors and flue

-deck of cards

-balloons

-buttons

-yarn

-beads

-musical instruments

Want to learn how to make this nifty door hanger? Head on over to How Does She and find out how I did it!

Things I encourage parents to do during play dates:

1. Set the stage by setting a blanket down for boundaries and placing the toys on the outer edge of the blanket. Try to place them the same way every time to keep consistency.
2. Avoid criticizing or taking charge during play.
3. Avoid lectures or giving information.
4. Allow your child to be the boss- that means to  act as an active follower.
5. Reflect your child’s feelings and verbally describe what you see them doing.
6. Transitioning can be difficult at times so try giving a 5 minute warning or setting a timer when there is only five minutes left.

More to come on"Special Play dates."

 besitos,