INDUSTRY INSIGHT
CHILDREN
SPONSORED CONTENT
Make Time for Playtime !
Photos by Rob Frank and RJ Fiorenzo
At the expERIEnce Children ’ s Museum , we believe that play is a powerful tool for families . Parents who take the time to play with their children set the stage for their children ’ s ability to successfully play with peers . Play can bring you closer together , aid in your child ’ s development and strengthen your parent-child bond that will last a lifetime .
While it is important for children to play alone or with other children , it is also important to play with parents or caregivers . Here are some helpful tips to encourage playtime in your family .
• Plan regular “ play ” times . It may be for 20 minutes before dinner every night or every Saturday morning . Time spent playing together is benefiting both of you .
• Give your child your undivided attention . Turn off the TV and your cell phone and make the time to play without distraction . Having your undivided attention makes your child feel special .
• Get down to your child ’ s level . That may mean getting down on your knees or sitting on the floor .
• Embrace repetition . Children learn through repetition . Let your child play the same game over and over . Your child will move on when he or she is ready .
“ It is a happy talent to know how to play ”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson , American Writer 1803-1892
• Let your child take the lead . During pretend play , let your child call the shots , make the rules , and determine the pace of play . Ask questions and follow along .
• Don ’ t force play . The best way to teach a new skill is to show children how something works , then step back and give them a chance to try . When your child is tired of an activity , it ’ s time to move on to something new .
Make time to visit the Children ’ s Museum as a family !
The Children ’ s Museum plays an important role in early learning for all children in our community . There ’ s no shortage of research indicating the benefits of museum visits for children . They can provide memorable learning experiences , spark imagination , introduce unknown worlds and subject matter , and offer unique environments for quality time with family .
For more information please visit www . eriechildrensmuseum . org .
420 French Street | Erie , PA | ( 814 ) 453-3743 | eriechildrensmuseum . org
Millcreek | Spring 2017 | icmags . com 57