Tips for encouraging independent play

[Herewegoagain56]

My 3 year old is quite hard work and demanding. I’m happy to entertain and play with him most of the time but sometimes really need 10 minutes where he doesn’t need me and I don’t want to always rely on tv. Whenever I try to encourage independent play he will just whine. Anyone have any tips?!?

Be busy! Say you can either help me unload the dishwasher / pair socks / watch me cook or play with your toys - and hope he chooses toys!!

Also, show him how to play independently - play with Octonauts or cars or whatever alongside him for 10 minutes. Show him what to do and then tell him you're just going to pop the kettle on. Initially stay away only for a couple of minutes and then come back to him, and then gradually stretch the length of time you're away from him.

Unfortunately, time is the only answer. He'll get better at it as he gets older.