
You don’t need more toys or a Pinterest-worthy playroom...
​
...and you can forego the nightly set up of a "morning activity" for your toddler.
If supporting your kids’ play feels like a full time job, you’re doing too much. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and want to try all the things when you’re just desperate for a break and the experts keep suggesting “more”...
But I’m here to tell you it gets to be easy!


what we're about:

Real Play. No Gimmicks. No BS.
Research-backed no fluff strategies for Independent Play.

Less stuff. More Play.
Open-ended toys that actually get played with over and over again.

Less overwhelm. More intention.
Because Independent Play shouldn't feel like another task.

Not your typical "gentle" parenting expert
Direct, practical advice from an actual expert. Not just another influencer in the wild.

Early childhood & independent play expert and homeschooling mom of three. I have a master's degree in early childhood education and a bachelor's degree in child development and have been observing children and their play for over 20 years.
As a former Reggio-inspired preschool owner, unstructured play is how I believe children thrive. When my oldest turned 5 and I quickly realized that we would be homeschooling, I had to figure out ways to get time back in my day without feeling guilty about what my children were doing (ahem, screen time). But there wasn't really much figuring out to do actually because independent play is the very best thing for children's development (it's science!). It's what children are meant to do. My only job was to create an environment that was supportive of that.
I'm happy to say that my oldest is now 13, and my other two children are now 7 and 10. My husband works full-time from home, I run 2 small businesses all on my own and my children are successfully homeschooled. Independent play is what gave us the foundation to be able to thrive as a whole family. We each have our important work and are respectful of that, while still coming together many time each day to share our wins and trials. It's a beautiful thing.
Even if homeschooling isn't for your family, independent play is still the avenue for optimal child development and a balanced family life. I'm here to show you the way!
Meet Amanda



ways we can help
Less is More
LESS toys.
LESS clutter.
LESS time cleaning up.
LESS frustration.
​
But more importantly,
LESS of YOU needed in their play.
​
Which leads to...
​
MORE independent play.
MORE time for you to do the things you want/need to do.​​​
​​​

Jumpstart independent play today with my private podcast.

Are you tired of feeling like your child’s constant entertainer?
Do you wish you could reclaim time in your day while still supporting your child’s growth and creativity?
Foundations of Independent Play is here to help.
This private mini podcast series is your guide to simplifying play, empowering your child, and creating a home where everyone thrives.