The Importance of Play

August 2007

Studies show that children learn best through play. This month, Nurse Rona Renner, host of the radio show Childhood Matters and the parenting expert for the Bay Area Discovery Museum, suggests some easy ways to play — and connect – with even the youngest kids.

Q. I worry about all those videos and electronic toys designed for really young children. Don’t kids just play anymore?

A. I think there are some great electronic products for kids. But overall, I agree with you. Undirected play allows young children to express their creativity and develop their imagination,  physical strength and problem-solving skills. When kids play with friends, they are actually learning skills like cooperation and empathy. When they stomp in a puddle, they learn how their actions impact the world around them.

Playing with your kids doesn’t have to involve expensive toys or batteries.  Here are some parent-proven ways to play with young children:

   • Build a tower with blocks (and knock it down).

   • Fill a dress-up box with old clothes. Or gather things with different textures like soft scarves, squishy sponges or rough cardboard.

   • Drape a sheet over a table and build a fort in your living room. Couch pillows make a wonderful cave or hiding place.

   • Pull out all your pots and wooden spoons. Your kitchen has all the raw materials of a great – and very loud – orchestra.

   • Set up an easel and encourage your kids to draw and paint.

   • Pretend your child’s stuffed animal is a teacher or a friend. Pretend play often lets kids act out what’s bothering them.

   • Climb, jump, or swing with your children. Playing at a park is a favorite with kids of all ages.

  • Take walks and let your children lead the way at their own pace. 

Most importantly, enjoy your kids.  And enjoy yourself!  

Rona Renner, RN, hosts the parenting radio show Childhood Matters, every Sunday from 9-10 AM on 98.1 KISS-FM. Have a question about parenting? Email asknurserona@badm.org