Sometimes ideas for blog posts seem to suggest themselves; today’s play-of-the-day for some kindergarten readiness learning and fun is looking at photos of family and friends to help children with connections. After a family celebration on the weekend for a 50th wedding anniversary, we looked at some of the pictures today. Little Sister recognized a few very familiar faces and then went off to play with something else. Big Sister could recognize more and talked about what was happening in the photos. As is often the case with kids and grownups, she noticed things that the adults didn’t.
We all need to feel connected to others. For children, this is especially important and is part of their development. Preschool, daycare, and kindergarten will increase the number of connections that kids form outside the family, but these places also increase the amount of time that kids will be separated from the family. Looking at photos of friends and family is a simple way to help maintain the connection and feel less separation.
Being away from family and caregivers can be a source of anxiety for some children. The first few days of preschool, daycare, or kindergarten can be scary. Having a photo of the family tucked into the backpack can be helpful and ease the transition. Kids can look at the photo when they feel all alone and remember that they will be home soon.
Take a few minutes, if possible, to dig out the photo books or scroll through some pictures. Talk about them with your child. Are there some photos of summer activities? Vacation might be over, but the fun can live on. Being connected to others is an early social skill that will echo throughout our lives. Do you have some photos to help your child with connections?