The Importance of Play

I have heard it said that "play is a child's work". I think defining play as work (any type of work) makes it sound less fun, less like play. Today I attended a training discussing play that gave it a much more appropriate definition. A better way to describe play is something that is spontaneous, volitional and "timeless".

Play is:
FUN!
The way that children explore their world
The best way for kids to create connections within their brains
Essential for a child's cognitive development

Play is not*:
Looking at flash-cards
"Drilled" games
Adult directed
*These things can be fun and can be good ways to teach children specific skills BUT they are not what I consider play. Children need quiet time (no TV/radio/computer distractions) set aside each day for them to engage in free-play.

I want to encourage parents to play with their children. Let your child lead the activities, follow what your child seems interested in. Think of ways to expand your child's current knowledge of household objects. Have fun!

What if you get "stuck" in the same play routine or you struggle to think of new ways to play with the toys your children like?
One great way to overcome these challenges is to write down 10 different games or activities you could do with the tricky toy in advance. Then when you are in the "spontaneous play moment" you will have some ideas in mind so that you don't feel stuck.
For example: My child has a "blankie" that he is always carrying, after wrapping him in it a few times I ran out of ideas...so here is my list
1) Give pull-rides
2) Superhero cape
3) Tug of war
4) Parachute to bounce balls
6) Be ghosts
7) Dress-up (skirts, turbans, hair)
8) Use for a swing
9) Fort/tent
10) Hot lava on red squares

Feel free to be crazy, think outside the box, whatever, just use your imagination.