As grandparents or seniors, when we hear a child ask us to play, do we think about how we played as children? Or do we think that we don’t know how to play in today’s fast-paced, electronic world? Exploring outside, making up games and stories with friends, spending afternoons building elaborate structures with sofa cushions and blankets or making mud pies in the back yard; these are all still wonderful ways to play. We know that spending time outside and in natural settings builds better brains and that positively connecting with other people helps children learn social and emotional skills. Having sensory experiences encourages connections in the brain and helps children with more complex learning later in life, (like reading and writing). Using imagination to transform pillows and blankets into a pirate hideaway or a princess castle promotes problem solving, language development and cooperation.
So, the next time a young child in your life asks you to play, think back to your childhood and jump right in! You can make a difference in a child’s life just by taking the time to play; the most important thing is to be available and enjoy the experience!
For more information on children’s brain development watch the video The Core Story of Brain Development at https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/resources/watch/how-brains-are-built-core-story-of-brain-development If you are passionate about children and their future, and would like more information about the Calgary NW ECD Coalitions, or if you have any questions, please email us at: [email protected].
