Play with Heart: Fun Ways to Support Your Child’s Growth at Home

Justin Lyons
Jul 14
2 min read

“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn.”

— O. Fred Donaldson

Two children having fun doing activities together

Play is more than just a way to fill time—it’s one of the most powerful ways you can help your child grow, connect, and thrive. Through play, children learn how to communicate, solve problems, and build relationships. For children with autism or developmental delays, play can also be a safe place to explore new skills at their own pace.

Why Play Matters So Much

Play nurtures so many important areas of development:

Language and Communication: Naming toys, making sounds, taking turns
Social Skills: Sharing, waiting, making eye contact
Motor Skills: Moving, stacking, grasping
Emotional Connection: Building trust with you in a low-pressure way

When you join your child in play, you show them you’re interested in their world—and that’s powerful.

Simple, Purposeful Play Ideas

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sensory Bins: Fill a tub with rice, dried beans, or kinetic sand. Hide small toys inside to discover together. Sensory play can be calming and engaging.

Turn-Taking Games: Games like rolling a ball back and forth teach waiting and responding. Keep the game short and upbeat to avoid frustration.

Pretend Play: Use dolls or stuffed animals to act out daily routines like bedtime, brushing teeth, or going to the doctor. This helps prepare for real-life experiences.

Movement Activities: Dancing to music, jumping on cushions, or crawling through a tunnel builds motor skills and burns off energy.

Art Exploration: Finger painting, coloring, or making collages can help with fine motor skills and creativity.

A happy family using manipulatives for a purposeplay

Tips for Meaningful Play

Follow Your Child’s Lead: Join in on what interests them most.
Keep it Short: Start with a few minutes at a time.
Use Simple Language: Clear, gentle directions work best.
Celebrate Effort: Focus on having fun together rather than doing it “right.”

Every moment of play builds connection, confidence, and new skills. And sometimes, the simplest activities are the most meaningful.

Get in Touch

I offer one-on-one coaching sessions tailored to young adults looking to build confidence, find direction, and take control of their future. Contact me today a www.specialconnects.com or email me at specialconnectsllc@gmail.com to learn more about how coaching can provide the clarity and motivation needed to make the most of your 20s!