Spark & Anvil Privacy

Take it with you

Print these for the other grown-ups in your child’s life. They are the same for every family — nothing about your child is on them.

Kin cards

For a grandparent

You don’t need toys or a plan. You are the best thing in the room.

  1. Get down on the floor, or bring the play up to the table — wherever you can both be comfy.
  2. Let them choose what you play. Ask “and then what?” instead of suggesting the next part.
  3. Tell them one story from when you were small, then ask them for one of theirs.

For an aunt or uncle

You get to be the fun, slightly silly grown-up. That matters more than you think.

  1. Copy what they do for a minute before you add anything new.
  2. Add one playful problem: “Oh no, my car ran out of fuel!” — then let them solve it.
  3. When they say no, try “okay, your way” and see where it goes.

For a babysitter

A calm start makes the whole evening easier — for both of you.

  1. Start beside them, not across from them, doing the same thing they are doing.
  2. Wait a little longer than feels natural before you speak. Let them go first.
  3. If things get loud or wobbly, go quieter and slower yourself, then try again.

For a big brother or sister

Little ones love you best of all. You are their favourite teacher.

  1. Let them be the boss of the game for a while. You be the helper.
  2. Make it a little bit tricky, but not too tricky. If they get upset, make it easier.
  3. Cheer when they try, not just when they win.

For a friend or neighbour

A few minutes of real play is a gift. You don’t need to do it perfectly.

  1. Notice what they are already interested in and join that.
  2. Use their name and a big, warm face — feelings travel through faces.
  3. When it is time to stop, give a little warning first: “Two more turns, then we tidy up.”

In-the-moment reminders

Short lines to keep in your head while you play — the kind of thing a quiet earbud coach would say. A practice aid, not coaching. Keep them on the fridge, or read one before you start.

  • At the start: “Watch first. Let them choose.”
  • After you ask something: “Wait. Count to five in your head.”
  • When they are busy: “Copy what they are doing.”
  • When play repeats: “Add one small idea.”
  • When they look at you: “Show your feeling on your face.”
  • When it gets loud: “Go slower and quieter.”
  • When they change the game: “Follow the new idea.”
  • Near the end: “Give a warning before you stop.”

These cards are in English for now. Other languages will follow once a native speaker has reviewed them.