Tapping into your inner child when playing with children can be difficult, but studies have shown that being playful with children promotes their imagination. 

Play can be a way for caregivers to connect with their children, given that play is treated as a balanced exchange of ideas between caregiver and child, rather than solely the parent or child leading it. When treated as a brainstorm session rather than an obligation, play allows both the caregiver and child to have fun and enjoy each other’s presence. One practical play rule, especially for adults who may struggle with imaginative play, is the improv “Yes, And…” rule. 

The “Yes, And…” rule involves caregivers engaging with the child’s ideas and adding onto them logically. For example, if a child says that you live in a castle, you could engage them by saying “Yes! My castle is full of diamond crowns and is protected by mighty knights.” An important exception for the “Yes… And” rule, nonetheless, is that it does not need to exceed set boundaries; caregivers, of course, do not always need to say yes to children. The “Yes… And” strategy is simple and effective in that caregivers who use it are able to participate in and prolong their child’s playtime with no planning needed. Further, the “Yes… And” rule boosts creativity and imagination in children. 

Overall, using the “Yes… And” rule is an important tool that can be used to help caregivers and children connect and bond over laughter-filled play.

Kylie Robinshaw

Research Assistant, UConn KIDS

Article Link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/play-your-way-sane/202210/how-turn-playing-children-childs-play

---