What Does ‘Good Enough’ Play Look Like?

Feeling the pressure to “do more” when it comes to play? You're not alone. From sensory bins to educational toys, modern parents are surrounded by messages about what baby and toddler play should look like. But what if good enough really is good enough?

In this post, we explore what meaningful, development-rich play looks like in real life — no prep, no guilt, no glitter glue required.

Play doesn’t need a schedule

You don’t have to plan themed activities every day. Your baby doesn’t care if it’s “transport week” or if the yoghurt pot they’re licking was meant to be a rocket. They care that they get to explore, move, and connect — and all of that happens in the everyday.

Pots and pans on the kitchen floor? That’s good enough. Squashing bananas in their highchair? Also good enough. Lying under a washing line watching the clothes flap in the breeze? Surprisingly rich in sensory input and completely valid play.

Real-life play is still real play

So much of baby and toddler development happens in moments we overlook — like wriggling on the floor, pulling wipes out of the packet, or playing with your keys for longer than you’d like. These aren’t wasted moments. They’re mini labs for coordination, problem-solving, persistence, and curiosity.

You don’t always need a toy. You don’t always need to be involved. Sometimes the best thing you can do is sit nearby and let them explore without jumping in.

It’s not a performance

Your child doesn’t need you to be a professional entertainer. You’re not auditioning for Ms Rachel. They need a responsive, relaxed adult who’s present enough to spot when they’re engaged and step back when they’re in flow.

If you can manage a few minutes a day of truly child-led play — where you follow their interest and give it space to unfold — you’re doing more than enough.

Why connection matters more than curated activities

The magic of play lies in connection, not curation. Your child wants your attention, your laughter, your calm voice narrating what they’re doing. That connection is what helps them feel safe, supported, and ready to explore.

They won’t remember the colour-coded craft trolley. But they might remember sitting in your lap giggling as you made a sock talk in a silly voice.

Looking for simple, low-pressure ideas you can actually do? Browse our Play Ideas section for more inspiration grounded in child development — and real life.