As I watched my son in swimming lessons today, he was fascinated as he pushed the water up over the lip of the pool and it trickled down the spaces between the tiles - a drain of some sort. Learning capacity grows for older children as their world expats to include making a tree house or some crazy go-cart using assisted toys in the yard. I am aware that this memories consulted of moments that you were engrossed in activity, while marveling at the wonders of the world. Was it exploring the nearby brook? Washing sticks and leaves float in the current? Or was it the accomplishment of building an amazing structure from blocks or Lego 's? Whatever it was, the opportunity for this free play offer d long lasting memories and educational opportunities.
Children learn problem solving skills, social skills, self-careers, social skills, social skills, social skills, regulation skills and self-confidence is gained as children engaged in unstructured play. Children who learn to play creatively will grow into adults who can think for themselves and be creative in the workplace.
Their science experiments or cooking experiments providing learning opportunities in physics and math. When they are engaged with others, social skills and negotiation skills are gained.
When we buy children gifts, we need to think about what toys will provide the most opportunity for open, unstructured play. These items include blocks, Legos, dolls, dress-up, and art supplies. Consider opportunities such as time in the woods, a field, or on a mound of dirt as wonderful experiences to engage child curiosity.
As we move into the new year I encourage all of us to find ways to increase our opportunities for open, unstructured play and minimize the structured activities, tv time and computer time
