Activities and Toys YOU Love (Just as Much as Your Kids Do)!

Okay, moms. Admit it. You love to play with your kids’ toys, too. Whether it’s the dolls, the board games, Legos, princesses, Little People … don’t worry. It’s okay! You aren’t alone. In fact, it has been found that the average parent spends more than a month of his or her life playing solo with the children’s toys. Researchers also found that 25 percent of parents admitted that their own boredom with their children’s toys triggered new purchases.

     Who says we have to stop playing once we’re “all grown up?” It’s not that we wanted playtime to stop as we got older; it’s just that life took over. We entered high school, had a lot of homework, began dating and were busy with extracurricular activities. Then along came the stresses and busyness of college and getting our first real jobs. Adulthood came too fast, and our precious toys from years past were either stored or given away, leaving us with only sweet memories of our favorite playthings and the joy they once brought us … until we had children of our own.

      With so many fun things to choose from, how could we not want to play with the kids? Not to mention the numerous toys from the good ol’ days back on shelves again. It’s as if we are now expected to get our playtime on! And for those of us who do, here’s a bit of good news: An important part of play for young children is playing with parents. It’s true! Play is one of the most important needs our children have. Through play, our children learn about and practice living in the world around them. It helps build relationships and also helps children manage their feelings. Plus, playtime is relaxing and fun for everyone!

     “My husband says I live vicariously through my kids,” says Kansas City mom Lauri Mink. “I love their Spirograph—I had one as a kid and it was one of my favorites, along with Play-Doh. My son also got an Imaginext castle for Christmas, and it’s just the coolest thing with all of the knights and their gear, not to mention the huge ogre and dragon. We have some fierce battles!” she says.

     If you still feel weird about playing, don’t sweat it! In today’s world, it’s hip to play with toys and games at any age. What’s more, adult Lego lovers have been coming out of the closet for several years now, admitting their love and loyalty to the interlocking plastic bricks. Lego-loving parents have even created their own acronym: AFOLS (Adult Fans of Legos).

     So, when you feel the need to sit down and play with your son’s Star Wars action figures or your daughter’s Easy Bake oven, go ahead. Have a few minutes of fun, and remember: All work and no play makes parenting a very dull job. 

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein absolutely loves playing Barbie dolls and making Shrinky Dinks with her two daughters.