What is learning through play? We are hearing about this more and more each and every day. Learning through play is a term that is used by educators and professionals alike. This is used to describe how a child can make sense of the world around them. Through play professionals are able to allow children to learn at their own pace and touch upon all the developmental domains they were taught during their education.
How can parents incorporate effective learning through play materials for children at home. Here are two great ideas…
It is as simple as making playdough at home (allows children to measure (math) add ingredients and see what happens as we add more ingredients (science, cooking)
INTERACTING DURING PLAY/OPEN ENDED QUESTIONS
Interacting with your children and joining in on play is important. It allows you to ask questions and build a strong relationship with your children. Asking open ended questions allow your children to continue to think during play. Some great open ended questions can be;
- Describe what is happening?
- Can you think of a new way to do it?
- Do you have any other ideas?
- How are the alike, different?
- How did you get that to work?
These allow their little brains to keep thinking during play.
SENSORY
Sensory play can be messy but very important! There are many ways to incorporate some great sensory activities with little to no mess. Such as;
- Playdough
- Painting/ colouring
- Ziploc bags
- Sensory water bottles
As a parents a also include messy sensory during the summer months so they can be enjoyed outdoors! The most popular and enjoyable outdoor activity is water play! Simple as food colouring and adding items into the water table.
Both these ideas are a great and simple way for parents to incorporate learning through play, remember to have fun these will be lasting memories!
