Play is an essential component of childhood. It could even be considered a basic survival need much like shelter, food and touch. Of the many, many benefits play imparts, one of the most far-reaching and long-lasting effects could be in the preparation of future fathers. Children learn by doing; and often, what they do, is what they see. A lot of what they see is a parent or caregiver tending to a younger sibling or baby. Children incorporate this into their pretend play. Pretend play offers … [Read more...]
Nurturing Touch, Infant Massage & Beyond–Guest Post By Regina Greenwood
I have been reveling in being a new grandparent...that also made me think back to when my children were babies--hard to imagine enough time has passed that they can be parents! To grandparents, babies are nothing but a joy and delight! I do remember, though, the fatigue of sleepless nights trying to console an upset baby. Oh how I would have LOVED having the services of Regina Greenwood of Genetic Bond available to me … [Read more...]
Play & Specific Needs
Toys may be geared to little children, but they are BIG business. They usually are marketed to select niches. For example: to babies, girls, boys, or special needs kids. In my opinion, that targeting is misplaced. I’m not fond of labels. They’re limiting for one, ‘trapping’ kidlets into expected behavior. In addition, labels can follow a child along have long term repercussions. In my opinion, one label, in particular, burdens a child unfairly and unnecessarily: hyperactive. To me, it’s natural … [Read more...]
Why Playing with Baby Dolls is (Very) Important
Baby dolls have stood the test of time…and with good reason! Children learn by doing. And often what they do, is what they see. A lot of what they see is a parent or care giver taking care of a younger sibling or baby. Playing with baby dolls comes naturally! Speaking of what comes naturally... Play is the natural, organic way to learn. In fact, because play often involves using both sides of the body—developing bilateral coordination—and the brain, it’s a holistic activity. Baby dolls offer … [Read more...]
Relationships–Then to Now
One of the things I enjoyed during my years of teaching preschool were the relationships I made with the kidlets and their families. Social media has made staying 'connected' to those older kidlets--if not outright adults--and their families much easier, turning relationships 'then' to 'now' and I cherish those relationships. It was just that kind of continued relationship that lead to a really, really fun event for me that I think will have some wonderful benefits for young children in the … [Read more...]