We know that all work and no play isn’t good for anyone – right! We all need some down time to just let loose and enjoy ourselves. The same goes with our kids. Sure we want to teach them to read and do math problems before the even start school, but we have to be realistic here – there’s plenty of time for all that (Approximately 12 years, plus any university or college afterwards). But there is a secret when it comes to kids, they actually are learning while they play, dexterity, using their imagination, or just learning how glue works, these are all things kids learn about life while they are also playing.
When we shop for Princess I Love to be Active, we look for things that are going to challenge her both physically and mentally. I personally think she’s very intelligent, despite the fact she has no interest in writing her name, she a genius in so many other ways. She has drive and determination like an elephant and wants to do everything the big kids are doing, she has no fear and if she fails, she gets up and does it again till she gets it right. I really admire her talents, at 4 she’s way more sporty than I ever was.
So, what do you get the girl that needs a challenge? Well, With guides such as the Joy Of Learning Playtime Guide, it’s easy to see what toys are good for which age group. You can use the above graph to help you in your search for toys for your kids as well. I did a quick search on the site to see which toys would be appropriate for my little fire cracker and they are bang on, doctor’s kit, cameras, tea time, doll houses, these are all things that Princess Imagination can play with to stimulate her growing mind.
I also really like using crafts as a form of play. I am not overly creative, but I find once I get to the table with Princess Creative I’m forced to get out of my comfort bubble and get creative too. With crafts, anything goes and it’s great to proudly display their artwork afterwards! I’m so proud of everything she does on her own, while I may here “Mommy, I need your help”, but the end she is usually saying “I can do that Mommy”. Crafting gives her confidence to know whatever she accomplishes is a masterpiece.
How do your kids play? How do you challenge your kids?
“Disclosure: I am a Fisher-Price Mom and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.”
