Creating engaging play opportunities at home
interview by Claudia Cojocea (Communications Coordinator)
It starts with a cardboard box. Not a toy catalog, not a trending app, but something open-ended and simple, yet full of possibility. For Mirjam Hoster, Early Years PYP Teacher at ISL Qatar, that’s where true learning begins. In a world that often confuses stimulation with development, she invites us to slow down, look closer, and see play not as a distraction from learning, but as its most authentic expression. In the conversation that follows, she offers thoughtful, real-life advice for turning the everyday moments of parenting into the building blocks of curiosity, confidence, and connection.
Mirjam, when we think about creating a space for children to play, it’s easy to focus on the toys, but is that really what makes a space engaging for young children? Or is it something else entirely?
A truly engaging play space for young children isn't just about having many toys. It is about creating a space where children feel safe to explore. The best play spaces have simple, open-ended materials like blocks, art supplies, and pretend play items. Children need room to move, materials they can use in different ways, and a feeling that it is okay to try new things. The setup matters too, keeping things at their height and rotating materials to keep interest fresh. But the most important thing is to give children time to play deeply without rushing them.
Parents often feel pressured to buy “educational” toys. Do these really make a difference, or are simple materials just as valuable?
Simple materials are often the best teachers! While some "educational" toys can be helpful, children learn just as much from everyday items. A cardboard box can become a spaceship, a house, or a store. Natural materials like stones, sticks, and leaves spark creativity. Basic toys like blocks, playdough, and art supplies help develop important skills. The key is how children use these items, not how "educational" the packaging claims to be. When children can use materials in many different ways, their learning goes deeper than with toys that do only one thing.
How can parents create a home environment that encourages curiosity and independent thinking through play?
To create a home that encourages curiosity, you can make a special place for play with easy access to simple materials. Ask open questions like "What do you think might happen if...?" and give children time to explore without rushing. Show interest in their discoveries without taking over, and add new materials based on their interests. Talk about what they're doing and wondering about, and let them see you being curious about the world too. Children thrive when they feel their ideas and questions are valued, so creating an atmosphere where exploration is welcomed helps them become confident thinkers.
If parents could make just one small change at home to support learning through play, what would you suggest?
If parents could make just one small change, I would suggest: slow down and follow your child's lead for 15 minutes daily. Put away your phone, sit near your child, and watch what interests them. Join their play when invited, but let them direct. This small daily habit shows children their ideas matter and builds their confidence to explore. This special time together is more valuable than any toy or planned activity. When children feel their interests are important to you, they develop a stronger sense of self and become more engaged learners.
Child-led play is important for problem-solving skills, how can parents encourage it without stepping in too much?
To encourage child-led play and problem-solving, give your child time to figure things out before helping. Instead of showing them how to do something, ask: "What do you think might work?" Notice and comment on their efforts, not just success, and share their excitement when they solve problems. Provide just enough help to get them unstuck, then step back. Accept that their solutions might look different from yours and talk about different ways to solve the same problem. When children work through challenges in their play, they develop confidence and thinking skills they'll use throughout life.
For families with limited space or resources, what are some easy ways to make playtime meaningful and fun?
Families with limited space or resources can use everyday items like empty containers, kitchen tools, or fabric scraps for creative play. Create small, flexible play areas that can be set up and packed away as needed. Rotate toys instead of having everything out at once to keep play fresh and interesting. Remember that your attention and time together matter much more to children than having many things.
How can everyday moments, like cooking, cleaning, or grocery shopping, be turned into playful learning opportunities?
Daily life gives many chances for play and learning. When cooking, your child can help by measuring, pouring, and mixing ingredients. Give real tools (sized for children) to do real work alongside you, building skills and confidence. Children can find colours, count items at the grocery store, and learn where food comes from. Chores can be fun too. Sorting clothes teaches grouping skills; setting the table helps with counting and space; sweeping helps body movement and builds helping skills. The main idea is to shift from "I need to finish this task" to "we can do this together." Yes, it takes more time, but the learning is worth it. You can make things fun by creating simple games: "Can we pick up all the blue toys before the timer beeps?”. Using Clean-up songs makes picking up toys more fun. Children remember these learning moments because they happen during real, loving time with you, not during formal lessons. When we bring a playful spirit to ordinary moments, children learn that the whole world is full of wonder and possibilities.
Final thoughts
Supporting your child's play does not require expensive materials, elaborate setups, or specialised knowledge. It asks mainly for attentiveness, respect for your child's capabilities, and willingness to create space, both physical and emotional, for exploration and discovery. By viewing play as the serious work of childhood rather than just recreation, you honour your child's natural learning process and lay the foundations for lifelong curiosity, creativity, and joy in learning.