We all know parenting is a round-the-clock job, but that doesn't mean we have to constantly entertain our children and provide activities to keep them busy.

The ability to self-motivate and entertain themselves is an important skill for children to learn, and the sooner the better.

Some children love their own company and can find something to do with even the most ordinary of items lying around the home. But not all kids are like that.

They may struggle on their own and want you to play with them all the time. Or they may complain of boredom even though they have an abundance of toys and activities. Children learn to be self-starters when they learn to have fun with just simple things. Their imagination grows richer as they transform the things around them into trucks, planes, animals and characters in the stories they narrate to themselves.

Helping hand

If your child wants to make a house by spreading blankets and sheets over some furniture, help them, but don't take over. Let them learn by working out how to secure the blankets so they don't keep falling off.

Make suggestions and be ready to step in if they are struggling, but let them do
some of the problem-solving first. A child's sense of capability is reinforced when they work something out for themselves.

They don't have to leave home to have fun - there's a wealth of opportunities in your own home and backyard. Let your kids play with saucepans, pegs, egg cartons and boxes. Get some large fridge boxes from an appliance store and they will have as much fun as they would in a fancy playhouse.

You can lengthen play time with questions, statements and observations as you watch. You'll enjoy playing with your child, but if your goal is to increase their solitary play, set limits about how and when you will be drawn into their activities. Be attentive, but not too available.

Tips for playing solo

Some children need help starting an activity. Pull out gently once they are engaged.

Allow mess and interruptions - it will pay dividends in having more engaged learners and some space for yourself.

Don't let TV or the computer be the default ‘cyber-sitter'. It can shut out enthusiasm for creativity.

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