# How to Help Your Toddler Play on Their Own: The Yes Space

> Uninterrupted, self-directed play and a safe 'yes space', from Janet Lansbury.

Stage: toddler - Topic: Play and development - Page: https://www.askcladle.com/guides/toddler/lansbury-independent-play

Grounded in: Janet Lansbury's writing on RIE-style independent play.

## TLDR

- Toddlers learn a lot from play they direct themselves, with simple, open-ended objects.
- Set up a safe yes-space so you can step back without constant no's, and don't interrupt focused play to praise or teach.
- It's not a reason to leave a child unsupervised or ignore distress; some children need more closeness first.

## The idea

Babies and toddlers learn a great deal from play they direct themselves - with simple, open-ended
objects, in a safe space, without an adult constantly entertaining, teaching or redirecting them.

## Practical points

- **A safe "yes space"** - an area where everything is safe to touch - lets an adult step back
  without constantly saying no.
- **Simple, open-ended objects** (cloths, bowls, balls, blocks) invite exploration more than toys
  that do one thing.
- **Don't interrupt focused play** to praise, teach or rescue. Let the child struggle a little
  with a problem before stepping in; a small, well-timed bit of help is better than taking over.
- **Start small.** Independent play grows gradually, often after a connected moment (a feeding,
  a cuddle) when the child feels securely connected.
- **Presence still counts.** The adult can sit nearby, observe with interest, and be available.

## Caveats

This is not a reason to leave a child unsupervised or to ignore distress. Children differ in
temperament; some need more closeness before they can play alone.