By Liz Arrington
don’t think I need to point out the level of stress and anxiety that the parents in our community are experiencing right now. The topic of conversation swirling around us is filled with questions and fears about what is the best choice for our children. Back to school, online school, homeschool, forming a “pod”; parents are weighing all of their options. Most of us are afraid that no matter what we choose, something will be sacrificed.
I
But, in all of the worry and stress about our children’s education, it’s critical that we not overlook the most important learning tool that our children need. Play. The unique thing about play is that children are born experts at it! In fact, they use play to teach themselves the things they need to learn. Play is the way that children internalize and process information, organize their thoughts and feelings, and express their inner voice. It improves dexterity and supports physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Play is so important that it has been identified by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the
United Nations Commission for Human Rights. Parental involvement in play is included in the many factors that support the role of healthy play in a child’s overall development, and we believe an equally important role in supporting the grown up’s own emotional and mental health. Play is a wonderful opportunity for parents to engage fully with their little one. Through play you are able to get a glimpse into their world, open up new channels of communication, and help to build enduring relationships. In my experience, play is one of the most overlooked tools for parents to use! However, for many parents, playing with their children can feel unnatural or uncomfortable, or at worst, like we are wasting time. If you are looking for ways to engage in play with your little one, try some of these suggestions. A few tips for parents to keep in mind when playing with their little ones: ● Resist the urge to direct or lead the play. It is critical for children to be self-directed during play, or it's not really play — it's following directions.
"Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is a serious thing. Play is really the work of childhood." - Fred Rogers 18 September | October 2020
