When it comes to your child’s self-led exploration, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to play! 🌈 If a plaything you introduce to them has an intended purpose, that’s just the beginning of what they can learn from it. Leaving them free to play with it in their own way builds creativity, independent thinking, and decision-making skills. Here are some tips to help you set the stage for these valuable learning opportunities: 👉 Resist jumping in. If your child reaches a point when they seem to need encouragement, then gently suggest a possible new direction, beginning with a phrase like, “I wonder if it will help if you try...” 👉 Model “grace and courtesy,” a Montessori practice, by allowing your little one to take a turn as you patiently wait for yours. This not only lets your child take the lead in their learning, but also shows how to take turns. Waiting is hard for them, and sometimes for you, too. It’s natural to want to help, but as long as they’re engaged, sit quietly with your hands in your lap. Focus on observing your child at work and give them a few minutes before proposing, “May I have a turn now?” 👉 Offer your child playthings with multiple parts that work together, like blocks, ball games, and pegboards. You may be amazed at how many unexpected ways your child finds to play. Let them experiment with sorting the parts, trying to fit them together, pouring them out of the box, and putting them back into it. With each activity they gain knowledge. Thank you @Gabi Simpson for sharing how your little one explores The Mosaic Button Board from The Companion Play Kit (for month 22-plus)! 💜 #L#LoveveryL#LearningThroughPlayFineMotorSkills #ToddlerTok #ChildDevelopment