Key Messages 1. 2.
Have fun playing together! Babies and children need to play - it’s how they learn about our world. Talk with your baby or child while you play - it will help them learn to talk to you. Watch and listen to your baby or child - let them lead the play. Don’t worry if your baby or child only plays for a short time, it will still have been a positive experience.
3. 4. 5.
working together for health & well-being
Construction
Watch out for….. 1. 2. 3.
Always keep a careful eye on your child. Create a safe place for your child to play (check regularly for broken toys and sharp edges) Watch out for small objects that can be swallowed.
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If you would like more copies of this leaflet, want more information, or would like a copy of any of the another leaflets in this series, please contact Somer Valley Children’s Centre Services on 01225 396660 This leaflet can be made available in a range of languages, in large print, Braille, on tape, electronic and accessible formats from Tel: 0800 073 1214 or Textphone: 07980 998906
Somer Valley Children's Centre Services Play Ideas
Why play with construction materials?
Playing together… • Watch what your child is doing and make a similar model • Add model people, cars, animals etc. to the models • If possible, when your child moves to another activity, leave the model so they can play with it later • Give them time and opportunity to make their model – it can take a lot of concentration!
• Playing with construction materials will give your child the opportunity for creativity and to use their imagination • It can also help them to develop control of the muscles of their hands and arms • They can learn about size, colour, shape and balance
Construction What can I use?
Talking together...
Duplo Sticklebricks Wood blocks Nesting cups Natural objects like sticks and stones • Cardboard boxes, tubes and masking tape (easier to use than Sellotape)
• Once the model is made, tell very simple stories about it • If your child comments on what they are making, respond with a simple, appropriate sentence. • If they are not concentrating too deeply on making the model, ask for suggestions about what the model is and what it can do
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