Some science news just released this week advised parents that “Children under the age of two years should not watch television or videos because it could harm their development (US pediatricians’ group, News in Science/ABC Science). And for older kids, even if the tv is only on in the background, “…a young child at play will glance at the TV 3 times per minute.” Plus, adults interact less with kids.
The study DIDN’T have any suggestions tho about how to keep children busy when parents and caregivers need to get some things done or would like to have the luxury of a quiet minute. Maybe scientists should study that! Here’s a few starters for mixing together kids two years and older with a few toys and a pumpkin for some play and talk fun that will promote readiness for kindergarten at the same time.
“Oh,” said the pumpkin, “it is raining and I will be cold. I need a house.” Who can build the pumpkin a house? Ask your little one to ‘help’ make a house for the pumpkin.- “Oh,” said the pumpkin, “it would be so nice to have a friend to play with. I would like to have a tea party.” Your child can set up a little play table and invite a few stuffies, too.
- “Oh,” said the pumpkin, “it feels like adventure time. I would like to go camping under the kitchen table.” Spread a big blanket over the table and turn it into a tent or fort.
All of these suggestions will stimulate lots of language and stretch imagination. Lego, Duplo, blocks, boxes, practically any toys can be used. Some of the kindergarten readiness includes problem-solving, adapting, symbolizing, remembering, constructing, comparing, organizing, measuring, counting, and eye-hand coordination for fitting things together. Kids may use 2 or 3 voices for being the pumpkin, stuffies, and themselves. There’s give-and-take, sharing and other social skills even when playing all alone with a pumpkin and some stuffed critters. With your little one busy you may even get time to sit and enjoy a cup, too. Any other ideas for the pumpkin channel?