Play is a very important part of childhood and is an indispensable part of learning from an early age. Joining in allows the parent to spend time with the child in a mutually rewarding and enjoyable way, and this ‘quality time’ strengthens the parent/child relationship. As the child gets older, play stimulates curiosity and creativity, and is an important part of the socialisation process whereby the child learns to relate to peers. It can be both a source of relaxation and an outlet for excess energy.
You can do much to facilitate creative and educational play for your child. In infancy, mobiles and bright toys will stimulate the baby to be aware of surroundings. Some babies seem to enjoy music, and will certainly respond to the sound of mother’s voice.
As your baby develops eye/hand manipulative skills, rattles, squeaky toys, large plastic blocks and shapes are all useful. Just make sure that they are safe. Later, play dough, pots and pans, sand play and finger painting will provide the child with an increasing range of experiences (see Toys, below and Books, p. 104). Most toddlers love being read to, and this provides a wonderful opportunity to create a special quiet time between parent and child.
As your child grows older, play becomes increasingly social, and he will involve peers, siblings and parents, although many children still like to spend time playing alone as well.
Make sure you provide a range of play materials appropriate to the child’s age and preferences. All children are different and they will have different preferences for play. What suits one child will not suit another. Parents can obtain information about play materials from a number of sources, including the kindergarten teacher and daycare provider. The local library will certainly have books about play with children, and some have organised reading sessions for young children. Some communities have toy libraries. Remember that toys do not have to be expensive to be creative and enjoyable.
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