The weather’s warming up, and summer break is almost here! For children, it’s exciting, but if you’re a parent, you might already be thinking: How am I going to keep my kids busy without losing my mind?

Every year around this time, I hear from parents who are feeling the pressure to keep their kids constantly entertained. When the dreaded words “I’m bored” come up, it can trigger guilt, stress, and a scramble to come up with the next engaging activity.

But here’s the thing: boredom isn’t bad for kids! In fact, it’s where some of the best learning and creativity begins. 

As a former educator and the founder of Be in Wonder Design, I’m passionate about helping families set up environments that support play, connection, and calm. The goal isn’t to fill every moment or to create a boredom-free environment. Rather, it’s to create a space that invites kids to explore, imagine, be in WONDER and take the lead in their own play.

Here’s how you can create a simple, intentional summer playroom that helps your kids thrive as well as yourself. 

Start Small & Simple

When it comes to play spaces, less really is more. Too many toys or options can overwhelm kids and actually make it harder for them to focus and play deeply. As well, the clutter of excess play items can create an overwhelming and messy environment.

Instead of filling the room with every toy you own, choose a few open-ended materials that can be used in lots of different ways. Some of my favourites are:

• Variety of  blocks 
• Play scarves or fabric 
• Art supplies 
• Loose parts like cardboard, craft paper, pinecones, etc. (be sure to use age-appropriate items, and avoid choking hazards for younger children, such as buttons or rocks) 

These kinds of items don’t come with instructions or a designated use. They are made for open-ended, child-directed play. Kids are able to choose how they play with the items, whether that’s by building a giant fort or designing their very own cardboard robot. They let kids use their creativity, problem-solve, and play in ways that build confidence and independence.

Create Play Zones

You don’t need a big space or a fancy setup. Try dividing the room into sections to create designated play areas. This helps to keep the mess contained and gives children a framework for play. This can be especially helpful if your child constantly looks to you for direction when playing. 

These zones could look like:

• A Creation Station for crafts, building, or drawing 
• A STEM Space with puzzles, blocks, or simple science tools 
• A Movement Zone with space for yoga, dancing, or a mini obstacle course 

Having these zones helps give your child some direction while still encouraging independent play. This is an excellent way to foster autonomy and increase time spent engaged in play.

Put Your Kids to Work

One of the best ways to help kids actually use the space? Have them help you set it up!

Ask them what kind of play areas they’d like to have. One child might prefer the majority of the space be dedicated to their favourite cars, while another would enjoy most of the space to be free for their creative ventures. Get their input when choosing materials, whether that’s paint colour or rug texture. Even small choices can give them a sense of ownership over the space, and that makes them more likely to dive in and play without needing constant guidance. 

Additionally, when children have a sense of ownership over their space, they’re more likely to treat it with care and respect. Tired of stepping on Legos? Giving your child ownership and responsibility over their own space might be key to solving that issue. 

And when they do come to you and say, “I’m bored”? Don’t feel like you have to fix it. Instead, try asking an open-ended question like:

• “What could you build for your stuffies to sleep in?” 
• “What kind of game could you make with those scarves?” 
• “I wonder what you could create with the blocks today?”
  

These kinds of prompts nudge them back into curiosity and give them a sense of control over their own play, without you directly instructing them.

Avoid statements like:

• “Stuffed animals don’t sleep in a bed.” 
• “That’s not how you play Tag.” 
• “We should put all of the red blocks together. It looks better that way.”

These responses tell your child that they don’t know how to play, and lead to more dependence on you to show them how. That being said, if the play your child is engaging in is hurtful, dangerous, or destructive, definitely jump in and offer guidance! 

My Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, you don’t need a Pinterest-perfect playroom to have a meaningful and memorable summer. You just need a few simple, flexible spaces where your kids can explore, imagine, and grow.

Best of all, when your kids are more engaged in independent play, you get a bit more space to breathe, and everyone– including the adults– ends up a little more relaxed.

You’ve got this. With a simple and functional playroom space, I’m sure that this upcoming summer will be a source of relaxation and happy memories. If you need guidance, support or help with designing a playroom haven in your house, please do not hesitate to contact me at info@beinwonderdesign.com.