Play is not just a way to pass the time — it is a vital part of life, especially for children. Whether it’s toddlers exploring their world with nursery toys or older kids bouncing away on trampolines, play fosters creativity, physical development, social skills, and emotional wellbeing. But sometimes, even the most exciting games can become repetitive or less engaging. The good news is, there are simple ways to boost your play and make every game more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Play is a fundamental way to learn about the world. It encourages problem-solving, teamwork, language development, and motor skills. The best play happens when it’s immersive, fun, and adaptable. So, boosting your play means finding ways to keep it fresh, engaging, and appropriate.
1. Start with Quality Nursery Toys
The foundation of enjoyable play is the toys themselves. For younger children, nursery toys play a pivotal role in stimulating senses, encouraging exploration, and sparking imagination. When selecting nursery toys, look for items that are age-appropriate, safe, and versatile.
Investing in quality nursery toys ensures they will withstand the rigours of play and provide ongoing interest. Rather than buying numerous cheap toys, focus on a curated collection that can be used in multiple ways.
2. Create a Dedicated Play Space
The environment in which play happens has a huge impact on how much fun it is. A dedicated play area, whether indoors or outdoors, invites children to engage more freely and confidently.
For indoor spaces, ensure there’s enough room to spread out toys and games. Use colourful mats or rugs to define the play zone and provide comfort. Good lighting and easy access to storage help keep the area tidy and inviting.
For outdoor play spaces which offer fresh air, physical activity, and the chance to explore nature, consider adding a small garden, sandpit, or water play table.
3. Jump Into Fun with Trampolines
One of the most exhilarating ways to boost play is by incorporating trampolines. Not only do trampolines bring endless joy, but they also promote physical health, balance, and coordination.
When looking for trampolines, think about the size and safety features that best suit your family. Larger trampolines offer room for group play, while smaller ones fit well in modest gardens. Safety nets, padded edges, and sturdy frames are essential to ensure worry-free fun.
Trampolining is perfect for children of all ages, encouraging them to be active without it feeling like exercise. Plus, it’s a social activity that can bring siblings and friends together, strengthening bonds through shared laughter and play.
4. Mix Up the Play Routine
Children can become bored with the same toys or games after a while. Introducing new activities or changing how existing toys are used can renew excitement. Try rotating nursery toys so that different items come out on different days. Introduce simple challenges or games that require using the toys in new ways.
For outdoor play, consider combining trampolining with other activities like ball games, hopscotch, or obstacle courses. This variety keeps children engaged and encourages them to develop a broad range of skills.
5. Join in the Play
Play is even more enjoyable when shared. Parents, carers, and older siblings joining in on playtime can boost a child’s confidence, provide new ideas, and deepen relationships.
The key is to be present, enthusiastic, and supportive. Follow the child’s lead, encourage creativity, and celebrate successes. Joining in also models social skills like sharing, turn-taking, and cooperation.
6. Encourage Imaginative Play
A child’s imagination can transform simple nursery toys into characters, settings, and stories that go far beyond their original purpose.
Support imaginative play by providing dolls, cars, play food, or dressing-up clothes and giving children space and time to invent their own games. Ask open questions about their play to encourage storytelling and creative thinking.
Trampolines can become stages for imaginative adventures – bouncing on the moon or escaping a dragon – turning physical activity into a rich narrative experience.
7. Keep Safety First
Safety is paramount to enjoying play without worry. Check toys regularly for wear and tear, ensure trampolines have proper safety measures, and supervise young children appropriately. Creating a secure environment where children can explore confidently. Providing soft landing areas around trampolines, securing nursery toys that could pose choking hazards, and keeping play areas clean all contribute to safer play.
