Posted by Karen Horsman, National Parenting Columnist. She was the CBC’s National Parenting columnist for nearly 10 years. Karen has covered over 500 topics dealing with the family and has interviewed parenting experts from around the world.
There's a lot to love about Anita Wadley's wonderful poem Just playing. But this is the passage that stuck with me most.
When I'm combing the bushes for bugs,
Or packing my pockets with choice things I find,
don't pass it off as Just Play
For, you see, I'm learning as I play
I may be a scientist someday
Getting outside to comb the bushes for bugs and explore has such a lovely feel to it. Spring has a special place in our Canadian hearts. The long winters keep us indoors so when April hits, neighbourhoods come alive with activity. Anita Waldley's words are an excellent reminder for all of us thinking about gardening and spring hikes. Digging in the dirt and spotting worms may not fall under the category of ordinary play, but there is so much more to it. Play is a powerful part of a child's life. The research is compelling. Neuroscientists say the simple act of a parent kicking a ball around with their two year old or blowing bubbles together is helping a child's brain grow. If we point out who's turn it is or how many bubbles popped, you are helping to prepare your child for kindergarten. Play doesn't come naturally to all grownups. When we were young, it was something we did on our own or with friends. But there's a new generation of engaged parents who are getting down on the floor and building puzzles, block towers and setting up forts. Here's some suggestions to keep in mind next time you're getting ready to play:
Dos:
- Set aside some time each day to play. It may feel strange writing it on the calendar but our days can go by in a flash. Mark it down and make playtime a priority.
- Chat while you play. Pointing out shapes and colours is great but you can also talk about something you're looking forward to. This is helping with conversation skills. Ask her open ended questions like "what do you like about this game?"
- Have fun. We have a lot on our plate but if there is one time during the day to "live in the moment", it's play time. You might not have the energy to let your imagination run wild but follow their lead. Let your child's curious mind be your inspiration.
Don'ts:
- Don't direct the play. If you're building a train track together, let your child be in charge. Without knowing it, we jump in and say "let's make this piece go under the bridge". Let them decide.
- Don't buy them toys that are too old for them. I saw a boy try to build a Lego set that was very challenging for him. Even though his Dad was helping, he looked frustrated and upset. Tuck it away and reintroduce it in a few months.
- Don't do something you really dread. I have a friend who despises playing Barbies. She once told me, "It's just not my thing". If getting down on the floor, acting out stories with Ken and his new friend makes you yawn, skip it. Do something you do like. Put on some music or grab some play doh. You'll have more fun and so will your kids!
When it's time to tidy up and get to the laundry or other chores, remember to tell your child how much you enjoyed spending time with them. We often think it...it's a wonderful gift to say it out loud. The power of play is also healing. The Canadian Association for Child and Play Therapy is doing some amazing work with children who have experienced trauma. Play is a huge part of our lives. We don't always recognize all its potential. As the poem Just Playing reminds us, all that painting, exploring and tower building is helping prepare our children for tomorrow.
What's your favourite kind of play?
Click here to join us on Tuesday, April 19th for a LIVE online forum on the power of play from 9:00am to 5:00pm EST. Send in your questions by posting them in the comments section at the bottom of the discussion forum. Karen will be standing by to answer all your posts.
