The beginning of preschool was the beginning of many new friendships. It’s during this special, even magical time, the early childhood years when kiddos learn (optimally in a PLAY situation) and hone their social skills. They go from being somewhat narcissistic to being able to see things from other people’s point of views. Social interactions between kiddos develop important traits like compassion, empathy and kindness as well as cooperation, collaboration and sharing. In other words, what it … [Read more...]
Risky Play–4 Reasons Parents Need to Relax
In my day, there was no risky play. Play was PLAY! Well, okay, maybe there was inside vs outside play or quiet vs noisy play, but none of this safe vs risky play. Scrapes, bruises, the occasional broken bone were taken in-stride and accepted as just part of Life for a growing child. Oh did Dylan have it right! Sometime after the 60s, when it came to children’s PLAY, the times were a-changing! Children naturally want to test their limits. Unfortunately that natural inclination has too … [Read more...]
It’s MY Body And It Belongs to ME! PLAY’s Protection Against Abuse
PLAY gives children the tools they need to navigate in and through the world. During PLAY, children develop the capability and creativity they'll need when they become adults. It’s been said, PLAY is a dress rehearsal LIFE! PLAY also is about the here and now. PLAY addresses all developmental areas for a child—physical, social, emotional and cognitive. When children PLAY they construct a framework to deal with change, stress and conflict—in other words, to be able to problem-solve and … [Read more...]
MEAN Girls—In the Preschool Years?!
Really? Mean girls in the preschool years? Unfortunately YES it can start even there…according to an article in the Wall Street Journal Little Children and Already Acting Mean the concept of ‘relational aggression’ is discussed. In a nutshell, relational aggression can be equated to emotional bullying. It's different than physical bullying in that there are no physical wounds, but that should not minimize or negate the pain and suffering inflicted. As I read the article, I immediately went back … [Read more...]