Make Playtime All the Time at Home
Hijinks and capers can be good for the soul, so here's how to incorporate play into your everyday life at home
Psychology says play is an essential to a happy life – not just for kids but adults too. “We don’t lose the need for novelty and pleasure as we grow up,” according to Scott G. Eberle, vice president for play studies at The Strong National Museum of Play in the US, and editor of the American Journal of Play. So why not get comfortable with your inner child and get ready to have fun at home.
Get low
There’s something about being on the floor that brings out the playful side in us. It’s informal, democratic (everyone’s the same height!) and good for your spine.
While you’re down there, spread out and organise your photos, do a 10-minute yoga practice (try Daily Yoga or Pocket Yoga apps) or simply get on your children’s level and see the world from their point of view.
There’s something about being on the floor that brings out the playful side in us. It’s informal, democratic (everyone’s the same height!) and good for your spine.
While you’re down there, spread out and organise your photos, do a 10-minute yoga practice (try Daily Yoga or Pocket Yoga apps) or simply get on your children’s level and see the world from their point of view.
Plus, a rug feels great on the skin – kids and pets are definitely on to something here…
Be a gamer
Have some family fun with a board game, or get a classy card tournament going, around a circular table. Round shapes are best for sharing time together, with everyone having an equal view of each other (so keep your card hand close to your chest). Dig out the Scrabble, Uno or Connect 4 – then all you need are some chips and dip.
Have some family fun with a board game, or get a classy card tournament going, around a circular table. Round shapes are best for sharing time together, with everyone having an equal view of each other (so keep your card hand close to your chest). Dig out the Scrabble, Uno or Connect 4 – then all you need are some chips and dip.
Play dress ups
Okay, so sorting out your wardrobe isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but what about the part when you rediscover all of those ridiculous clothes you forgot you had? It’s like going to the dress up store, for free! A chest is a great place to store these outfits, as well as outrageous hats, scarves (masks?) and accessories for fancy dress parties and halloween.
See more photos of this fun, family house
Okay, so sorting out your wardrobe isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but what about the part when you rediscover all of those ridiculous clothes you forgot you had? It’s like going to the dress up store, for free! A chest is a great place to store these outfits, as well as outrageous hats, scarves (masks?) and accessories for fancy dress parties and halloween.
See more photos of this fun, family house
Build a fort
Imaginary worlds are created by the simple act of putting an umbrella or tent up. Underneath them, we can turn into pirates, fairies, superheroes … or even just a sleeping giant.
Imaginary worlds are created by the simple act of putting an umbrella or tent up. Underneath them, we can turn into pirates, fairies, superheroes … or even just a sleeping giant.
Be a swinger
Movement = fun. Irresistibly playful, and rich in childhood memories, placing a swing in your home will coax your inner child out. It’s the perfect place to muse, daydream, read or even nod off for a wee kip.
Movement = fun. Irresistibly playful, and rich in childhood memories, placing a swing in your home will coax your inner child out. It’s the perfect place to muse, daydream, read or even nod off for a wee kip.
Chalk it up
Who says there has to be a division between work and play? Brainstorming is easy (and way more fun) when you start with a chalkboard. Using coloured chalk on a blank board with no lines will get the creativity flowing.
When it comes to practicality, a chalkboard wall is a great place to compile your shopping list as you go, as well as writing down notes and memos. But when it comes to fun, there’s no comparison. Hangman, Pictionary, family portraits and inspirational or funny messages – the chalkboard is the ultimate canvas for family life.
Who says there has to be a division between work and play? Brainstorming is easy (and way more fun) when you start with a chalkboard. Using coloured chalk on a blank board with no lines will get the creativity flowing.
When it comes to practicality, a chalkboard wall is a great place to compile your shopping list as you go, as well as writing down notes and memos. But when it comes to fun, there’s no comparison. Hangman, Pictionary, family portraits and inspirational or funny messages – the chalkboard is the ultimate canvas for family life.
TELL US
How do you encourage playtime at home? What has been the result?
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How do you encourage playtime at home? What has been the result?
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Browse more fun-focused Houzz stories
What’s more fun than DIY? Get your hands dirty (and gluey) and have an adult crafternoon. Whether it’s simple decorations for a party, making use of that fabric you love to freshen up a dining chair, or knocking up a space-saving storage solution, there is something so satisfying about making something yourself. Often a great way to save money, DIY also has the added benefit of creating an emotional connection to your home, and the making process is a great story to tell guests.
If you love the idea, but you’re not into crafting, try DIY-lite with the ‘Make Your Own Angle Lamp’. With this handy kit, you get to choose your own linen shade (white, fog, emerald, melon or mustard), cord (in cheeky red, royal, black or yellow) and base colour (fog, white, barn or black), then assemble the lamp yourself. It’s like Lego – but way more beautiful, not to mention functional.
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