How can I play with my child?

nidoearlyschool - 29 Apr 19

Children learn best through play. It provides the building blocks that supports their future learning and development. Play starts children on the journey to lifelong learning and helps them gather information about the world around them, helping develop their physical, cognitive and social skills.  Play within families helps to reduce stress and creates strong connections and bonds.  There are many ways of incorporating play into everyday home life that benefits both children and parents.

Play is quick, easy and cheap to implement in the home.  The best prop that you have is yourself- your child wants to spend time with you and to share the joy of play with you- so don’t wait for your child to ask you to play, instead invite them to play with you. Being with their parent makes them feel special and this time is invaluable.  Open-ended play where the child directs their own discovery and exploration and can express themselves freely, creatively and imaginatively without pre-set limitations is believed by many to be the most valuable.

Games that involve physical activity are crucially important for a child’s development and lays the foundation for a healthy active life.  They’re great for reducing stress for both children and parents.  So if you or your child has had a busy day, get physical with them.  The laughter and giggling will help them to let off steam and as a parent, you will feel your tension ease too.

Engaging in outdoor play has a positive influence on a children’s behaviour, physical and cognitive development, social skills and can help to boost their confidence.  Some examples include kicking, throwing and catching a ball, tossing beanbags, playing hopscotch or simply going for a walk around your neighbourhood.  These provide endless possibilities in the eyes of a child.

Household jobs are fun with children and become playful when they can help.  Simple activities such as washing the dishes, tidying toys, and folding can be meaningful learning opportunities which help to support numeracy skills in children. Sharing a book together helps children to develop literacy skills and behaviours from a young age and form a positive attitude towards literacy.

Nido Early Schools  are inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy to early education. Our educators recognise the importance of play and create high-quality play based educational programs to bring learning to life for your child.  If you are in Perth and think your child would benefit from attending one of our schools and want to find out more, please visit our website, www.nidoearlyschool.com.au or visit your local Nido Early School.  We would love to meet you!

nidoearlyschool

Jessie (Bertoni) Counted is a highly skilled industry professional and has covered most educational and management roles across the sector in over the last 16 years. Jessie has excellent knowledge and skills and currently is the People & Quality Leader for NSW services covering Long Day Care and Outside School Hours Care. Jessie is passionate about transforming the way we see education and is committed to supporting services in providing quality education and care.

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