As your children settle into their routines of school and homework, it is still important to remember that children learn best through play. Keeping that in mind, we have some great ideas to keep your children engaged in learning through play.
Board Games are always a great way to encourage focus, strategy and cooperative play. With cooler evenings in the fall, settling in for a cozy game night is something your child will truly enjoy. Children love to engage with you when it comes to play. Sit down and spend some quality time with them. It’s the best feeling as a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle to watch them as they learn how to have patience, take turns and play fair.
Outdoor Play is still necessary. The weather is beautiful during the fall season and perfect for exploring and discovering the world of nature with your child. A great idea to embrace the changing season is a Nature Scavenger Hunt. Make a list of all the special and unique things that can only be found in autumn months: changing colors of leaves, falling acorns, apple harvests, pumpkins, etc. Bring the list along for a walk or hike with your child. You’ll both enjoy the adventure of discovering new and exciting things in your surrounding environment.
Imaginative Play is always a huge hit during the fall. Halloween is a great excuse to dress up and pretend to be something or someone. Invite your child to continue to pretend play after the holiday. Pretend play encourages your child to dream, learn about new things and discover new areas of interest. Pretend play is also great for encouraging cooperative and developing cognitive skills as well as developing speech and comprehension.
Enjoy fall with your child. There’s nothing like a warm cup of spiced cider, the crackle of the fireplace, and cozy comfort foods to set the tone for a perfect night of quality time learning through play with your child.