Has lockdown made you a better parent?
Toy brand, Melissa & Doug, has teamed up with child psychologist, Dr Sam Wass, to study the effect of parenting during lockdown. The results have highlighted that 50% of parents agree with the above.
According to the report, despite the stress and chaos that came with juggling home schooling, parents actually spent 50% more time playing with kids during lockdowns versus before. As a result this has really improved bonds with their children.
Simple activities such as reading bedtime stories have increased by 25% while activities such as baking and crafting have made a welcome return to family activities. On average, playtime rose from 5 hours and 16 minutes to 7 hours and 53 minutes per week.
Nearly half (46%) of children, aged 3-10 years, say having more play time is what they’ve enjoyed the most about the lockdowns. Games and puzzles were named children’s most played with lockdown toys by parents.
Dr Sam Wass, child psychologist and expert on The Secret Life of Four/Five/Six-Year-Olds comments: “Parents have been quick to beat themselves up about doing a bad job during lockdown. So, it’s refreshing to see how many, on reflection, can see the benefits of this unprecedented time for family life. The benefit of unstructured time has been hugely beneficial for parents and children alike from strengthening bonds through more play, story time and arts, crafts, and puzzles.
Competition
If similarly to the findings above, you’re keen to engage in more unstructured play with your children, we have a bundle of toys to give away! Dr. Wass has endorsed several of Melissa & Doug’s traditional toys that encourage play and develop key skills. We have five items to give away in a special bundle (UK only):
Wooden Latches Board – builds fine motor skills
Primary Lacing Beads – improves emotion regulation
Food Groups – ignites imagination
Fire Chief Role Play Set – teaches consideration of other people’s thoughts and feelings
Doctor’s Kit Play Set – encourages nurturing and caring qualities
To win, just sign up for the Inspired Family newsletter before Friday 9th July.
Dr. Sam has shared further tips on how to keep up the positives of lockdown family life, as restrictions ease, on Melissa & Doug’s UK Facebook page.
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