Learning Through Play

                                                         Learning Through Play


" Play is the highest form of research."~Albert Einstein

As a Parent, What Is My Role In Play?

Parents are their children's first and best playmates. Parents have a role in being involved in their children's play. Children tend to be more creative when their parents are involved in their play. The best play occurs when the adult plays alongside the child, rather than just providing the toys or supervising. Becoming part of a child's play may take practice. Some parents feel that the need to give up "childish" things and "grow up". However, this is not true for parents. Some suggestions for joining your child's play include:

Observe. Watch your child closely to learn what he or she can do and has problems doing. Also, be aware of your child's favorite activities.

Follow. Join in and play with your child so that he or she knows you are interested in what he or she is doing. You can add to the complexity of the play; however, let your child be in control and determine the direction of play.

Be Creative. Let go of the adult idea that there is only one way to play with a toy. Use toys in different ways, and you will be amazed at how many different ways you can play with one toy. Being creative will make playing more fun for you and your child.

What Toys Are Appropriate For My Child?

Parents also have an important role in choosing good toys. Below are some suggestions for appropriate toys for children of various ages. Be aware of your child's interests and abilities. Not all children enjoy the same kinds of play.

Birth to 1 Year Old

A baby learns about his or her surroundings by using all five senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch). A child this age is also learning cause and effect. Toys this age group may enjoy include:

• Mobiles and safety mirrors;

• Rattles;

• Stacking toys;

• Simple pop-up toys;

• Picture books;

• Musical toys, squeeze toys;

• Infant swings; and

• Teething toys. 

1 to 3 Years Old 

 A toddler moves around in the environment a lot (walking, climbing, pushing, riding). A strong interest in manipulating and problem solving with objects begins during this period and can be encouraged with:

 -Push-pull and ride-on toys

-Small tricycles and wagons

-Simple puzzles, shape sorters, and peg boards

-Movement games

-Large beads

-Blocks and stacking rings

-Picture books

-Crayons, markers, and clay

3 to 5 Years Old

 Preschoolers love to be around other children and enjoy sharing many kinds of activities, including:

-Dress-up with accessories

-Puppets

-Large bead-threading and lace sets 

- Storybooks

-Simple board games

-Puzzles (no more than 24 pieces)