Play Possibilities
-December 14, 2009-Comments (0)
Play is an important aspect of how young children learn. In this month's issue of ParentLife, Dr. Rebecca Isbell discusses the different forms of play and how they are beneficial to children in her article "Time to Play."
Do you need some ideas for how to play with your child? Try these fun, simple ideas!
- Look at Me! Begin with simple instructions for your child to follow. Next, let her give the directions for you to follow. Enjoy the experience, suggest funny motions, and laugh with your child.
- Puppet Drama. Have several hand puppets that are easy for your preschooler to use. Let your child select her puppet and you choose yours. Use a voice that goes along with the puppet and talk to your child’s puppet. Give her the opportunity to talk in the voice of the puppet chosen. When interest fades, try a different puppet.
- Literature Drama. Read a story to your child that will encourage dramatic play. After the reading, talk about the characters and what they said in the story. Then act out the story. Enjoy the process and do not be concerned about the “correctness.” This play should be enjoyed by you and your child.
- Musical Freeze. Select a CD that has music that you and your child will enjoy. Explain that when the music stops she should freeze (stop moving). Play the music for about two minutes and then stop the music. It is helpful to move with your child. Next, vary the time the music plays. Sometimes the music will be short and other times the music will last longer.
What is your favorite way to play with your preschooler?
