Playing Together

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. 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, orga nize 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 By

Idon’t think I need to point out the level of stress and anxiety that the parents in our community Liz Arrington

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 equa lly 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 m any 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-dir ected 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

● Use reflective language, repeating what you see and hear. It helps to see yourself as a mirror for your child. ● Ask questions to clarify your role (what would you like me to do?) But avoid asking "Why?" or digging for meaning in play. It's frustrating for children to interrupt play to explain or examine what they are doing. ● When playing with toys or other objects, avoid the urge to move your little one's body or hands for them.

Even if they are playing with a toy the "wrong" way, authentic play is meant to be an exploration. You may choose to model the "correct" way for them, and your little one might change their approach or save that information in the future. ● Play should be FUN! Relax, focus and fully engage in the activity and delight in this little window into your little one's wo rld. ● Set aside some time this week to engage in play for 30 minutes with your little one.

This makes a special time for the two of you, and ensures that it actually gets done during busy days. You may be surprised at how that 30 minutes recharges your battery and sets aside some of the worries of your day. In a period of time when families are burdened with stress and uncertainty, one thing we CAN do is p lay. It’s mutua lly beneficial, brings families together, helps our children to express their thoughts and feelings, and supports all areas of development. So, get into the work of childhood, and play with your little one today!

Liz Arrington combines her background in working with children and families with her love of music, to provide early childhood music and movement classes to the families of Cypress. Online music classes also available. See more at www.songfulbeginnings.com.