There are many ways you can encourage open-ended play, or even join in playtime, with your children. Some examples of things you can do/toys you can play with are:

• Playing on playgrounds
• Creating pictures with art supplies
• Playing dress-up with props and costumes
• Inventing games with items found in nature, such as shells and pine cones
• Creating their own little world with wooden blocks and figures
• Imaginative play with small props like tea party sets and play food
• Building with loose parts and bricks

If your child asks you for help during playtime, you can encourage them to solve the problem for themselves by asking open-ended questions. This encourages them to think about the answer, further promoting their development and growth.

At the end of the day, let your child take the lead – this is what makes it "open-ended" play after all! There should be no goals set - instead, it's all about exploring the different ways to have fun. Relax mama, and allow mistakes and mess to happen as your child goes on with their train of thought. Open-ended play not only gives a chance for your little one to grow and learn and develop as their own person, but it also makes for beautiful memories where you can bond with your baby.