Toddlers need time to learn through play

Here are some tips to keep toddlers entertained while getting educated.

NEW YORK CITY — It’s not only school–aged children who are starting off a new year of learning.

Younger children, especially those younger than 3, can be exposed to learning routines as well.

Bette Holtzman, vice president of consumer and family advocacy at The Goldberger Company, has some pointers for families to keep in mind for their toddlers going “back to school.”

UEvery day is one big play date: Young children are like “sponges.” Play is learning and learning is play in the first few years of their lives.

USchedule learning time into your child’s daily routine: Developing a routine is vital to a young child’s development. Active learning can be encouraged when your child is most alert and gentle play such as reading and soft singing can be used for a wind-down.

USometimes it’s the box — not the toy: It is important to allow young children to “experiment” while trying new things. Kids need to touch and see everything they come into contact with. Even allowing children to play by themselves at times, with safe items of course, is a good way for them to learn how to do things themselves. Basic “non-toys” such as boxes and other containers are perfect for unlocking the key to a child’s imagination. 

UDramatic play gets kids to be creative: Your old hats and clothes are a child’s dream when it comes to playing. When a child sees things, they love to act them out. You may walk in on your child playing “mommy” or pretending to be Elmo or any other favorite character.

UPlaying with dolls can be educational for kids: Using a child’s doll, parents can teach basic skills and emotions. For example, when playing “tea party,” children learn manners and how to be gentle. Fine motor skills are also developed when a child dresses or undresses their doll.

ULet your child do the talking: You don’t want to become “helicopter parents” hovering over a child’s every action. It is important to inspire them to think, do and try things by moving in, planting an idea and then quickly moving out. Try not to stifle their play or creativity.

UReading to your child is integral to your daily routine: It is very important to set aside time every day to read to your child. Younger children love rhymes, simple stories and looking at pictures of other babies.

URemember, your kids are watching you: Children are “wired” to imitate. Play for children is imitative because it helps them master basic skills. Don’t be surprised if you catch your child imitating a phone call or pretending to cook dinner. For good or bad, they’ll be watching and learning — so be aware of what you do in front of them!

XBette Holtzman has been a family therapist and children’s advocate for more than 25 years.