Child-Led Play for Speech & Language development

What is Child-Led Play and How You Can Do it at Home to Support Your Child’s Speech, Language and Communication Development.

What is Child-Led Play?

Child-Led Play is when you let your child choose what and how they want to play. It helps them explore their interests, build confidence, and learn new skills in a fun way.

Is there a Right Way to Play?

Nope! All children learn through play, whether that is lining up their toys, make believe with their teddies and play food, spinning the wheels on their cars, making potions in the  mud kitchen, or re-enacting their favourite scenes from media, these are all forms of play. There is a common misconception that play needs to look a certain way, or follow a specific developmental path but at My Journey we see children learn through all different types of play. Neurodivergent and Neurotypical play are just as important and valid as one another, and no type of play should be considered superior to the other.

Why is Child-Led Play Important?

• Boosts Creativity: Kids use their imagination and come up with unique ideas.
• Builds Confidence: Children feel proud when they make decisions and solve problems on their own.
• Enhances Communication: Playing together helps kids express their thoughts and feelings.
• Strengthens Bonding: Spending quality playtime together strengthens your relationship.

How to Do Child-Led Play at Home

1. Regulation comes first
   • When children are dysregulated, they cannot engage fully with their environments.
   • Have movement opportunities available such as a peanut ball, swing, or play tunnel.
2. Create a safe play space
   • Ensure the space is hazard free and your child can explore all objects in their environment without restriction or specific direction.
   • Have toys and activities out that your child is interested in, whether that’s letter tiles, cars, trains, paint anything goes!
3. Follow your child’s lead
   • Get down on their level if you are able and watch what your child is interested in and join in.
   • Copy their actions, vocalisations and body movements and observe their reaction.
4. Pause and Wait
   • Pause your interactions and wait to see what their reaction is
   • Interpret any form of communication e.g if they look in your direction, are they asking for more?
5. Respect Their Choices
   • Allow them to play at their own pace.
   • Avoid directing or controlling their play.

Tips for Parents

• Be Patient: Give your child time to explore and figure things out.
• Stay Flexible: Be ready to switch gears if their interests change.
• Keep it Fun: The goal is to enjoy the time together!

Remember: Play is Learning!

By supporting child-led play, you are helping your child grow and thrive in a loving and understanding environment.

Contact Information

For more tips and support, contact your local Speech and Language Therapist.