When I talk with parents at Ecobuns, one thing always comes up: the way their kids actually play in our store. Not just for a few minutes, but really play—get-into-a-flow-state, forget-what-time-it-is kind of play. And it’s not magic (though it feels like it). It’s what happens when we give kids the time and space to do what they’re wired to do: explore through play.
We talk a lot about developmental milestones and educational toys—but here’s the truth: if we skip over play, we’re skipping the part that brings all of that together.
Play Is How Kids Learn
If you’ve ever watched a toddler stack blocks or negotiate the rules of a made-up game, you’ve seen it happen: social-emotional growth, critical thinking, creativity, and resilience right there on the playroom floor.
But that kind of learning takes time. Research shows it can take 45 minutes (or more!) for children to enter deep, meaningful play. That’s why it matters that kids aren’t constantly shuffled from one structured activity to the next. They need time to sink in, get absorbed, and follow their own curiosity.
That’s also why we’re intentional about the kinds of toys we carry. At Ecobuns, we choose toys that invite creativity. Things without batteries, flashing lights, or step-by-step instructions. The more a toy does, the less a child has to.
What Is Play, Really?
Play isn’t just a cute activity we check off the schedule. It’s not a craft or a coloring sheet (though those can be fun too). True play is self-directed. It’s messy. It doesn’t always have a clear goal, and that’s the point.
There’s a concept in education called being “play-responsive.” It means creating an environment where play can unfold naturally, without constant adult interference. The adult’s role isn’t to lead but to observe, reflect, and support.
It sounds simple, but it takes intention. It means resisting the urge to jump in. It means letting go of the idea that quiet = good and chaos = bad. It means watching kids figure things out for themselves where they sometimes fail, regroup, and try again.
You Don’t Have to Grow Out of Play
Here’s the part we often forget as parents: play isn’t just for kids.
We’re quick to trade in joy for productivity, curiosity for control. We scroll. We multitask. We stay busy. But what if part of what we’re missing is… play?
Not organized sports or self-improvement goals, but the kind of play that makes you lose track of time. Painting. Gardening. Knitting. Racing Matchbox cars with your kids on the hardwood floor.
Kids don’t just need to see adults working hard. They need to see us enjoying life too. They need to see what balanced looks like.
Let’s bring back play for them, for us, for everyone.
💜
Marissa
Ecobuns Baby + Co.
Holland, MI