Why does babyeats value play so highly, and why is it so important for young children?
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What are the best tools for developing imaginative children?
Reading and sharing stories together is a great way to fuel your child's fantasy life and is recognized as one of the most useful tools to expand their vocabulary.
No matter how simple or elaborate it may be, art is an important process for young children. Often it is difficult to distinguish what children portray in their work, so ask them to interpret it for you. Instead of "What a beautiful house!" say, "What cool colors you've used! What's happening in this picture?"
Listen to an abundance of music together and encourage your child to sing, dance, and play a homemade drum or guitar or trumpet.
Children learn a lot from dramatizing events from their daily – and fantasy – lives. Pretend play develops vital social and verbal skills, emotional understanding and the world of discipline.
Charity shop donations may be put on hold for a few years as you finally get value out of the disregarded items in your wardrobe such as old scarves or fancy shoes circa 1980 (only worn once before)! Provide a special box for role-playing props that can enlighten their play experience and add that special touch to a Circus Ringmaster or Beautiful Ballerina. Don't forget to replenish its contents frequently as it adds to the fun immensely!
Whilst in front of the TV or computer get your child to interact with what they are seeing. Ask them questions or tell them a little more about what they are watching. We know that TV can be a convenient babysitter, but some researchers suggest limiting children to less than one hour per day. The Internet can also be a valuable tool for education and some parental-guided web-surfing is encouraged.