Its Playtime!

When we are fully present with our children during play, we foster self-worth, confidence, and independence (amongst other things).  Child-guided parenting does wonders for the parent-child connection.  Sometimes its hard to let go of our adult expectation/thoughts/lives....so here are a few reminders.
  • Get down on your child's level
  • Observe to see where your child it taking his/her play
  • Respond when your child interacts with you (verbal and non-verbal interactions)
  • Join in, but don't take over
  • Narrate or track the child's play from time to time - "Oh, you are scooping the beans".."You are pouring the beans"...etc (this lets them know you are fully present and it makes them feel valued and confident in their play - not to mention its great for language development with the little ones.)
  • Repeat what the child says from time to time - "I poured the beans"/"Yes, you did pour the beans."
  • Instead of "Good job" try using phrases like,  "You sure do know how to scoop and pour." or "Look at the amazing tower you built." ( I also like "You must be so proud of yourself" in place of "Im so proud of you".)
  • Allow them to play with things any way they want to (safely) - with no "right" or "wrong" way.
-AK
MESE, MECD
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