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Living > Public Health, Safety

The Importance of Play

Play has been called "the work of children" because through play children learn how to deal with their natural world and discover what they enjoy doing. Through play a child learns to explore, discover, create and solve problems in a safe and caring environment. For example:

  • A bucket of blocks or different size cups lets a child arrange and rearrange things which builds gross motor skills, improves eye-hand coordination and develops problem-solving skills.
  • Language games and storytelling using picture books or retelling family "stories" help a child get ready for reading and writing.
  • Moving sand through funnels or strainers or arranging small cars in garages builds an understanding of the physical world and numbers
  • Make-believe play with dress-ups and props allows a child to "try" different roles, encourages creativity and helps a child deal with everyday tensions and stresses
  • Guided play with board games using number lines, dots on a die and markers teaches a child about taking turns and helps to develop math skills

(Source: Mustard, J.F. & McCain, M.N. [1999]. Reversing the Real Brain Drain - Early Years Study Final Report)

Playing with your baby or toddler
Not only is play important for the growth and development of your child, it gives you an opportunity to build a strong and loving relationship with him/her while having fun. Even on a busy day, you can find time to play doing everyday things like driving, buying groceries, doing laundry or giving your child a bath. Making things fun will encourage your child to want to do these things with you and makes your time together even more special.

Playing with a baby is different from playing with a one year old and different than playing with a three year old. As with other areas of growth and development, all children are different and you may find they enjoy different toys and play experiences. Respect your child's preferences and try not to push him to do something he is not ready to do.

Use the following suggestions as guidelines only. It is more important to create a fun, happy playtime for your child than to rush them into games or activities they are not interested in.

Infant Play (birth - 12 months)
As infants grow they are constantly learning about themselves and their world through their five senses - seeing, hearing, touching, tasting and smelling. It is important to play with your baby throughout the day and offer them opportunities to learn through their senses. Parents can play with their infant in many ways:

  • sing, read and talk to your baby even if he doesn't seem to be listening
  • hold your baby, smile and tell him how wonderful he is
  • take your baby for walks around your neighbourhood or go to a park - talk about the things you see and hear
  • play music and gently move your baby's arms and legs to the beat
  • hang brightly coloured objects near your child - mobiles, mirrors, pictures
  • try short periods of "tummy time" with your baby

As baby grows

  • offer him toys he can hold - rattles, bells, plastic rings
  • play during bath time - gentle splashing, floating toys, cups
  • play simple games - peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake
  • offer larger toys in bright colours and ones that move or can be pushed and pulled
  • play with your baby on the floor and encourage him to crawl by placing a favourite toy just out of reach
  • continue to sing and read to your baby

Toddler Play (12 months - 3 years)
Toddlers are generally more active and need safe places to play and explore. They like to imitate others and get messy - playing in water or sandboxes. As a parent you can look for opportunities to "play" with your child during everyday activities such as doing laundry or dishes, going shopping or tidying up around the house.

  • allow your child to help with chores - e.g. counting things as they are put away, vacuuming with you using a toy vacuum, dusting tables with a soft cloth or duster
  • give your child a few pots and pans, plastic bowls and spoons so he can "cook" with you
  • make a "dress-up" box with hats, old Halloween costumes, purses, vests and other clothes that have been shortened to be safe for small children - encourage your child to pretend to be someone else
  • continue to sing and read to your child
  • put some music on and dance with your child
  • follow your child's lead and play his favourite games often
  • if he invents a new game or way of playing - praise him for his ideas and enjoy the activity.
  • limit the amount of time your child spends watching tv or videos, or playing computer or other electronic games

Trips to the park or the Ontario Early Years Centre in your community will provide other opportunities for your child to play and explore.

For more ideas on keeping your child active, visit Families on the Move.

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