Free play is much more than just a pastime—it is the most important “form of learning” in childhood. Through free play, children explore their surroundings, develop creativity, solve problems, and learn social skills. How can parents support their children during free play?
Why free play is so important
During free play, children decide for themselves what, how, and with whom they play. There is no set goal and no predetermined rules. This is precisely where its strength lies: children learn to make their own decisions, use their imagination, and organize themselves – in their own individual way and at their own pace. This form of learning fosters independence, creativity, and confidence in their own abilities. Social skills are also fostered: children learn to share, be considerate, resolve conflicts, and communicate with one another. At the same time, they develop empathy and a sense of their own boundaries and those of others.
The Role of Parents: Guiding Rather Than Dictating
Many parents ask themselves: Should I join in or stay on the sidelines? The answer lies somewhere in between. Parents should be supportive guides rather than active leaders of the game.
Children don't need constant guidance; they need space, time, and a safe environment.
Ages 1 to 3: Exploring and imitating
At this age, children explore their surroundings with all their senses. They observe and imitate.
The supportive role of parents:
Create a safe and stimulating environment
be present without taking over the game
Provide simple play materials (e.g., building blocks, scrap materials, and everyday objects)
Reduce the number of toys: Fewer options encourage creativity
Verbalize your observation or acknowledge it with a quick glance or a smile (“I see you stacking blocks”)
Ages 4 to 6: Fantasy world
Children become superheroes, animals, or parents. This helps them process their experiences and incorporate them into their daily lives. They also need to give free rein to their creativity.
Parent contribution:
Provide open-ended materials (e.g., cardboard, string, pens) for creative projects or dress-up activities
Take children's stories seriously and respond to them
Allow room for creative chaos
Address conflicts that arise during the game, but don't resolve them immediately
Ages 7 to 9: Rules and social games
Children develop an interest in rules, cooperation, and competition.
Parents can:
Offer board games, but continue to allow free play
Encourage friendships and shared playtime
Intervene to mediate in a dispute
Encourage independence (“How can you solve this?”)
Limiting screen time: Digital media is no substitute for real play
Ages 10 to 12: Independence and projects
Free play becomes more complex: Children plan projects, build things, or create their own games.
Important support:
Provide materials and resources
Place your trust in them and give them space
Show interest without being controlling
Value initiative
Boredom as an Opportunity
Boredom is an often-underestimated aspect of free play. When children aren’t constantly being entertained or directed, they come up with their own ideas. A seemingly boring moment can suddenly turn into an imaginative game. This ability to entertain oneself is a key building block for creativity and inner balance.
Free play is therefore not “wasted time,” but a valuable period of intensive learning. By allowing their children to engage in free play, parents help them develop into independent, creative, and strong individuals. It takes trust, patience, and sometimes the ability to tolerate chaos.