Does it seem like the toys have taken over your home? That you step on pieces of Legos wherever you go? There is a simple and inexpensive solution that many parents don’t realize is possible to implement, even in a limited size home or apartment. The key is to pair down the type and variety of toys, while also still offering some great educational experiences.
Here’s how to create a designated play space in your home:
Purchase toys that will grow with your children: For example, blocks are a perfect toy to have in any play area as they can be used by children of any age. Whether a young child is just banging blocks together or an older child is building a tower, blocks certainty make use of a child’s imagination.
Offer a designated “art” space: Art projects can be messy, but they are an important part of any child’s creative development. Teach them that art supplies need to be cleaned up and stored properly after use so to avoid spills or having them dry up and having to be thrown away.
Display a bookshelf: Children of any age love books. The more you can offer a place for them to easily access their books, the more you will naturally foster a love of reading. Ideally continue to rotate the books and add in holiday favorites to continue to peak their curiosity
By encouraging clean up time after play time, you are teaching your child to respect your living space, certainly a valuable lesson as they will be expected to do the same in school. Even if you have children of multiple ages, it’s still a wise idea to help them understand that there is a special place for their toys and how it will help to find them easier when it’s play time!
Harbor Child Care is here to help foster your child’s learning experiences both at our center and in your home in any way we can. For more information, contact us today.
