Monday, July 14, 2008

Wanna Play?


Play is such a simple word, yet so very important. Active and imaginative play is all about learning: learning to problem solve, learning about social interactions, emotions, language, and learning fine and gross motor skills. Sustained engagement in imaginative play is really a cognitive skill.

Your child already knows how to play, but if you’ve forgotten, you might want to check out the book, Unplugged Play, No Batteries, No Plugs, Pure Fun. This book by Bobbi Conner has over 700 ideas for ages 12 months to 10 years. It is designed for parents, but I plan to use it to rejuvenate my lesson plans. Ideas range from setting up a pretend shoe store to birthday party ideas. There are plenty of active games to get children moving.

If you want to build your relationship with your child and promote healthy development, just go ask your child, "Wanna play with me?"

Interested in more information about the importance of play? Read the article, The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds, from the American Academy of Pediatricians at http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/XJ&sdn=stress&cdn=health&tm=96&gps=286_153_1020_542&f=20&su=p674.5.336.ip_&tt=2&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.aap.org/pressroom/play-public.htm

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