Top ten tips for parents and families
All parents want the best for their children - and one of the
best things is play! All children can play, no matter what
their ability. Here are some tips that you may find
useful.
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1) Getting started
Just because your baby can't talk, doesn't mean they're not
learning. Babies learn all the time through watching and
listening. Talking (or signing), singing and reading all help
your baby's development - and they will enjoy it too. Talk
(or sign), read and sing to your baby to give them the best start
in life.
2) Messy play
Children really love messy play. Play with things that
your child can get their hands into - something as simple as a bowl
of water or sand can be fun to a child. Keep messy play to
one area in your house and put down a plastic sheet or
newspapers. If you can, get messy, playing outdoors.
3) Outdoor play
This is important for physical fitness and developing self
confidence. Activities need a bit of challenge and
uncertainty - too safe can equal boring! Make friends with
other parents in the area - the more adults keeping an eye out for
children, the safer it will be to play outside.
4) Safety
Teach your child about safety - this includes road safety,
stranger danger and safety at home. Make sure to supervise
small children playing with water, and don't leave small objects
within easy reach - if it can fit inside a toilet roll then a child
under 3 can choke on it.
5) Leave the clearing up
Don't get too worried about having a tidy house. The dust
will still be there tomorrow! Small children and tidy homes
just do not go together and you will miss out on more important
things like having fun with your child. Make sure you make
time to play!
6) Be creative
Children don't just play with toys. Children love playing
with household items such as pans, wooden spoons, and
sponges. Leave your child to choose what to use and how to
use it, for example, a sheet thrown over a table or chairs makes a
great den.
7) Helping out
Young children love helping around the house. What may
seem like boring chores to you can be fun as well as a real
learning experience for your child. It may take longer but
laying the table, hoovering, dusting washing up can be good fun
when you do it together.
8) Play with the elements
Let your child experience playing with water, wind and
earth. Make mud pies, go exploring through the woods, have
water fights, play in the bath, make and fly kites! When it's
wet and windy go out for a walk with your child - children love
splashing about in puddles.
9) Free play
When you first give your child a new toy or puzzle, they may
need help, but it's ok for children to play on their own.
When your child plays alone, they're learning how to keep
themselves occupied. When children play with firends they
make up games and learn how to get on with others.
10) Look after yourself
Being a parent isn't easy, so it's important to look after
yourself as well as your child. Make sure you have people to
talk to when you need to and get time to yourself - even if it's
only a cup of tea and reading the newspaper while your child's
playing.