COMMUNITY NEWS
Play comes naturally to
children. It is their work; it is
through play that they learn
about themselves and the
world.
When parents participate in
play, they help to develop their
child’s literacy, numeracy and
social skills.
As well, spending time
playing together is one of the
best ways to strengthen the
parent-child bond.
For some parents, the idea
of getting down on the floor
to play with a child feels
awkward. Sometimes it may
seem like a poor use of time.
After all, the laundry is piling
up, there are dishes in the sink
and dinner won’t make itself.
But when a parent can
spend even a few minutes a
day playing, the long-term
benefits far outweigh the shortterm inconveniences.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012
BRANDONSUN.COM
Take time to play every day
Shawna Munroe
PARENTING
POINTS
Shawna Munroe works at the Elspeth
Reid FamilyResource Centre, a facility of Child and Family Services of
Western Manitoba that offers parenting information and support.
» 255 Ninth St., Brandon
» 726-6280
What does play look like? It
may be hard to know where to
start, so it is best to go straight
to an expert on the subject:
your child.
By following your child’s
lead, you are showing her that
you care about what is
important to her.
BABIES
Babies love to see your face
and hear the sound of your
voice. Play with your young
baby by cuddling, rocking and
singing.
As he gets older and can
grasp objects, give him a toy
that rattles or crinkles and
make music together. Look at
picture books or in the mirror.
Play peek-a-boo. When he is
able to sit up, roll a ball back
and forth between you. Talk
and sing to your
throughout the day.
baby
TODDLERS
Toddlers love to imitate the
adults in their lives. As much
as possible, let your toddler
‘help’ you with your daily
chores. A toy broom, some
plastic mixing bowls, or toy
tools will allow her to work
alongside you and copy your
actions.
Read to your child often and
talk about the pictures in the
book. Blocks, stacking cups or
simple puzzles may be
favourites. Remember to spend
lots of time, both indoors and
out, running, climbing and
having fun.
PRESCHOOLERS
Preschoolers are able to
remember familiar songs or
phrases from books and may
ask to hear the same stories
over and over.
Your preschooler might love
to create with paint, glue,
scissors and more. Keep a box
of art supplies handy and
spend
time
making
masterpieces
together.
Remember that art is learning
about textures, shapes and
colours, and try not to worry
about the finished product.
Preschoolers may enjoy
building with blocks, playing
dress-up, or games like I-Spy
or Hide and Seek.
SCHOOL-AGE
School-age children are
growing more independent,
but still love to play with Mom
or Dad. Board games or
puzzles might be popular.
Take turns reading to each
other. Even once your child is
able to read on her own, she
will likely still enjoy hearing
you tell a story. Spend time
being active together; biking,
skating, playing catch or tag.
The time you spend playing
with your child is never
wasted. You are helping him
learn not only about the world
around him, but about himself
and his abilities.
Play is one of the best ways
you can show your child just
how much you love him.