@playfulheartparenting: Pretend play gets a bad rap. There are endless playful alternatives to what we traditionally think of when we hear the phrase “pretend play” — we just have to be open and a little creative. And one of the best parts of being open to it is… …it can help the day go by so much more smoothly! ✅ Satisfying our children’s desire to connect with us through imaginary play ✅ Checking things off our to-do list without the power struggle. But! If we’re only playful when we want our kids to do something, they’ll sense our agenda. It’s important to first establish an atmosphere of lighthearted playfulness. For help with that, check out the link in bio for play break BINGO — my free printable full of creative mini-games and fun moments of connection! 💞