How to play when you don't really feel like it

You and I both know that play is critical for helping our children develop right? I'm sure this is not "news". After all, T.V shows, books, websites, blogs and Pinterest boards are devoted to the topic- so really it is pretty hard to escape the message!
This is all good news- it's good for children and it's good for parents. Except for one thing- not every parent likes to play!

stop reading and come and play Mum!

I can relate to this, surprisingly, even though my whole career seems to revolve around play. Admission- Sometimes (O.K.maybe even often) I just don't feel like playing with my children and struggle to be properly "present" during the process. I find it so hard to truly focus on the moment when I know that there are a million and one things that need to be done around the house. And don't get me started on the thought of "crafternoons" Uggh just another mess to clean up!

And do you know what? I don't even need to apologise for that because those sorts of feelings are so common and normal for parents. But (there had to be a "but"), my kids still need to play- and for part of that play, they need to play with ME. Luckily, over the years, I have found a few strategies that are really helpful in meeting both my needs and the needs of my children for play with me. Maybe they will help you too.

1. Remind yourself of the benefits of play- sure children learn almost everything through play- social skills, thinking skills, emotional maturity, creativity, motor skills, independence skills, the list goes on....but did you know that you can benefit too? Regular short bursts of truly engaged play with your child can help them feel secure and may lead to them learning to play independently for longer periods while you get on with other things you have to do.
2. Schedule play in- Have a daily routine and pencil in play time with your child. Write your routine down or put a reminder in your smart phone- whatever you prefer. Sometimes it is easier to get yourself in the groove if you know when you are going to be expected to pretend to be a princess or get dirty in the sand pit.
3. Set the timer- It can feel less daunting doing things that are a bit of a challenge when you know you have a time limit. Some children respond well to a timer too and it helps them "transition" to their next activity or accept that you need to move on to doing other things.
4. Fit a little play into every day routine tasks. Try to think of the play opportunities in everyday tasks- deliberately choose the "wrong" outfit when getting your child dressed, make slurping noises with your drink and then pull a funny face about how silly you are- it doesn't have to complicated or lengthy- just playful!
5. Fake it till you make it- Playfulness doesn't come easily to many of us but that doesn't mean we cant learn! If you don't know where to start- observe your child and take their cue. Copy what they do, join-in with things that interest them (even if you find it mind numbing), exaggerate your facial expressions and make an extra effort to sound enthusiastic. You may feel ridiculous at first (or even always) but your child will benefit. Who knows you may grow to love play!

What are your tips for getting in the groove of play?