Children are encouraged to play and engage in activities from a very young age. Toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children are naturally curious and like to explore the world around them. While parents might think of play as a way for kids to burn off energy, it is much more than that. Children learn through play, a growing concept in education circles.
What is LTP?
This approach helps a child learn, grow and develop mental, physical and emotional skills. This gives them valuable tools to use as they grow up and enter adulthood. Play is key to a child’s development.
Benefits of LTP
By learning through play, children learn to pay attention, follow directions, and develop their social skills. Valuable learning activities can include make-believe play, online educational games, and pretend grocery shopping where children learn lessons about money.
Examples of Play-Based Learning
Many activities encourage imaginative play and help a child build valuable skills.
Sand and Water Play
These activities teach kids basic science concepts like volume and construction. Kids also develop hand-eye coordination and learn that actions have consequences.
Playdough Play
Making pretend food or other items out of playdough helps children develop finger strength and fine motor skills.
Dress Up and Role-Play
This can help kids make sense of the adult world. Examples include pretending to be a doctor, chef, or astronaut. Playing with dolls or action figures also encourages social skills and creativity.
Imaginative Artwork
Painting and drawing encourage children to be creative and express themselves. They will also learn the basics of writing.
Playing Games
Blocks, jigsaw puzzles, board games, shape sorters, and outdoor play teach kids valuable math and gross motor skills. Teamwork is an added benefit, especially when a sport is involved.
Entertainment
Singing, music, and dancing help children develop literacy and coordination skills. Kids also learn basic math concepts like counting and rhythm.
Household Items
Kids are often entertained by cardboard boxes, plastic cups or bottles, and similar items found around the house. Mix in some basic art supplies and watch their imaginations go wild!
LTP Skills Children Learn
Let’s dive into a few key skills children build from learning through play.
Communication
Children develop speech, language and listening skills when they play and interact with others.
Brain Development
Play improves cognitive development in children. They learn valuable problem-solving skills which can lead to success in the classroom.
Emotional and Relationship Growth
Children who play with their parents or peers develop better emotionally and socially. They learn skills such as how to compromise, share and socialize.
Why Play is Key
Play is crucial to a child’s learning and development. Not playing outside in nature, for instance, can lead to attention problems and behavior issues. Reduced playtime may also increase stress and impact a child’s social and emotional maturity. Parents can be a role model for their kids. Build family playtime into your routine. A game night, for instance, helps individuals relax, laugh and heal. It also builds resilience.
Harbor Child Care, located on Long Island, is dedicated to full-day childcare and age-appropriate education. The center uses the Creative Curriculum Program, regarded as a leading early childhood educational approach. For more information about what we offer, contact us online.
