Children learn best through PLAY!
Last year I encouraged you all to celebrate how children learn best - through PLAY!
This is what I wrote:
A Resolution that will benefit you and your children (January 2025)
Let's make this year a celebration of how children learn best - through play!
Play is important for all of us.
An opportunity to do what interests you in the moment and do it in the way that you wish to. You set the purpose.
How do we best support our children in their endeavors?
Here are a few ideas:
Give them lots of time and space in their daily or weekly routines with nothing specific to do. They need that time to expand their imaginations - what can I do with what is available to me.
Create a space in your home that is just for them to play and create (They don't need the whole house - just one space - or a small basket in each room that they use). A space that has just the right amount of "items" for your children. So, you may ask "what is the right amount?". It's the number of each large category (I.e. books, craft supplies, toys, etc.) that they (and you if they are under 3yrs old) can easily manage and use on a daily/ weekly basis. Therefore, less "stuff" equals higher quality of play.
Use a toy (play items) rotating system as your child seems less engaged with the items that are currently available. It takes time to set this up, but once organized it can be very functional.
Perhaps consider focusing on experiences over "things". Especially those that may take you outdoors.
It is beneficial to spend time alone, in pairs (with an adult or other child), and in groups (communities of other children and/ or adults). When making plans for how to spend your time, perhaps consider balancing these experiences.
Take a bag or box and designate it for donations - when it is filled give items away - kids may help with this too. Repeat! Repeat! Repeat!
Continue to declutter - five minutes a day goes a long way!
How did you do?
Wishing you all a very playful 2026!