Mom, did you know that your house is full of hidden treasures in plain sight? A treasure box can contain a spatula, box, whisk, roll of paper or something as simple as plastic cups. It may come as a surprise to you, but a box full of household items is a goldmine for young children. Any safe item at home represents a potential for discovery and a great opportunity to learn something new.
If you notice that your TV remote control is missing, just smile and enjoy this as part of the fun experience of growing up. Unstructured play is very important, because it stimulates their creativity, learning and decision-making skills.
Now let us dig into it a bit more:
- No need to show them how to play with items in the treasure box, they gain more joy from discovering it in their own way.
- There is no deadline to meet nor plane to catch. Give them all the time they need to enjoy and learn. After all, in this way they will discover their own way to see the world
- Go further! Add a bit of verbal encouragement such as “So, you’re talking on the phone! Are you talking to Gogo?” or “Aha…you’re cleaning the floor!Thanks for helping me”
Remember everything starts in the tummy…when they feel right, they can enjoy growing up happy!