Letting an 8 year old rescue know it’s ok to play with toys?

[johnerica]

I have 2 dogs. An 8ish year old/ 70 pound mix who I found as a stray 7 years ago and a 1 year old beagle mix. The 8 year old has balls that are only allowed in the yard, but has never shown any interest in toys inside the house. We had a toy explosion when our super toy driven pup came in at 8 weeks. 8 year old will occasionally play with a stuffie, however, if he sees that I am watching him, he’ll drop it and cower. I’ve tried sitting and playing with him. He’ll sometimes play with the pup with a toy, but will drop it like it’s hot if he sees me watching. I’ve tried just ignoring him playing. He always drops it and hides. Anyone have any tips to let him know that’s it’s ok. It warms my heart to see him play with toys quietly. I just want him to be joyous and happy.