A child’s development at an early age sets the stage for future success, and interactive play can have a big impact. Not only does it expand a child’s imagination and social skills, but it also can help develop gross and fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and hand and finger strength.
With success at play, children build both muscle skills and cognitive skills that lay the foundation for aptitude in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. And the best part? Parents can easily provide these benefits during daily routines.
Mealtime. Allowing your child to be a little helper in the kitchen not only teaches some meal preparation skills, but also helps develop motor skills. Good for hand and arm strengthening, activities like smashing potatoes, kneading dough and stirring food benefit your little chef.
Playtime. Just as much of a daily activity as bedtime or mealtime, playtime is essential to your child’s growth and development. Look for toys that are fun and also help children develop the skills they need, such as the Step2 WonderBall Fun House, an interactive playhouse that helps toddlers develop hand-eye coordination with put-and-take play using included colorful balls. Features like tube mazes and an open play concept will enhance your little creative player’s imagination in no time.
Bath time. If you’ve ever had to wrestle your child into the bathtub, you know bath time isn’t always enjoyable. All sorts of bath time toys are available, but some of the best ones are items you already have in your home. To work on fine motor skills, introduce household objects into your child’s bath routine: plastic cups for pouring water back and forth, strainers from your kitchen and any toys that promote a squeezing motion. Even the act of wringing out a wet washcloth can help develop a child’s hand muscles.
When incorporated throughout the day, interactive play can benefit both parent and child. Small but meaningful everyday tasks can help your child develop and grow. Continue to have fun and encourage your child along the way as you watch his confidence and skills increase.