Play. What a simple idea. What an amazing process. Play is the most powerful way for young children to learn about themselves, others and the world around them. Einstein said, “Play is the highest form of research.”

What do we mean by play?

Play is an activity that is engaged and in which the child directs what happens. Play has no particular goal, objective or end.  It is a process that leads each child to make his or her own discoveries. It is an experience that allows each child to express with actions and/or words what he is thinking and feeling. The way a child plays is just right – for him!

As a parent, your role in your child’s play is critical. While all children need time to play independently, they benefit tremendously from play time spent with a responsive adult who wants to share in their discoveries. Our own sense of wonder can be reignited when we observe our child discovering something new, for the first time, or learning to work things out with friends.

DOs (And a couple don’ts) WHEN JOINING YOUR CHILD IN PLAY

Follow your child’s lead. Take part in what interests him. Physically place yourself on her level. Participate actively, but don’t direct the activity

Talk about what your child is doing, feeling, seeing, touching, hearing

Ask questions with no right or wrong answer. Please don’t use play time to quiz your child about colours, numbers, shapes, names etc. These shut down the imagination and impose a “right and wrong to the play.

Provide materials according to your child’s age that are open-ended: that is, there is no right or  wrong way to play with them other than safety precautions suited to your child’s development

Give your undivided attention whenever you can. Turn off the TV; Let voice mail do its job.

Restrain yourself from solving the problems that arise!  Provide encouragement and suggestions so that frustration does not become overwhelming, but see for yourself what your child is capable of on his own, and allow him to discover this as well.

A Few of Our Favorite Low Tech, High Interest Things…

These are all adaptable to a range of ages:

* Water   *Things to crawl into like boxes  * Blocks   *Dress-ups

*Books      *Things with wheels      *Bubbles   *Dolls

*Playdough (once kids have passed the mouthing everything stage)

*Puzzles and other toys with pieces that go together

*Dishes and cooking utensils (even boys love to cook)

*YOU – the best toy in the house.

For more great information about Early Childhood resources, programs and information in Cranbrook and the East Kootenay region, please visit our website at : www.ekkids.ca

Robyn Graham/Cranbrook Early Childhood Development Committee

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