In this video, I’m sharing my top 10 tips for encouraging independent play at home—especially if you feel like your little one is asking you to play every five minutes and you’re totally exhausted. Independent play is so important for building critical thinking, creativity, and self-confidence (and yes, it also gives us parents a bit of breathing space). I talk you through what’s worked in our home with Isla and Iris, and how I approach it with a Montessori lens. I cover practical things you can start today: allowing boredom (babies and toddlers don’t need a performer), filling their “emotional cup” through practical life activities, and observing your child so you can offer the right activities for their interests, schemas, and sensitive periods. I also explain how I separate Montessori shelf work (often needs a demonstration because it can be more closed-ended) from open-ended toys (where I try to stay out of the way unless I’m invited). I share how I join play briefly, let my child lead like the “director,” then slip away once the play is flowing. Finally, I talk about staying nearby without interfering (even eye contact can pull toddlers out of concentration), rotating shelf work to keep things fresh, leaning into sensory and outdoor play for longer engagement, and limiting screens—because constant stimulation makes it harder for children to entertain themselves.