Play at any age seems like it should be simple. Parents sometimes delay activities to protect them, and sometimes they just don’t realize the importance. Child learn through play, and the simplest activities can be the biggest opportunities for growth.
Activities by Age
Infants
Babies are just supposed to sleep and eat, right? Wrong! Babies are learning new things every day with your help. In the first year, babies are slowly letting go of the reflexes they are born with to help them through the birthing process. These reflexes start to melt away and allow for more controlled and voluntary movements.
Toddlers
Toddlers have lots of energy and personality. They don’t call them the Terrible Twos for nothing. Did we say, terrible? We meant, terrific twos! Toddlers are so fun to play with because have more skills so you can play in many new and exciting ways.
Preschoolers
The preschool years are a time where children become more aware of their bodies and identifying their gender and gender roles. This understanding allows for more pretend play and increased skill with coordination of the large body muscles as well as the small muscles of the hand.
Younger School-Age Children
The early school years are typically fun and exciting for children. Children develop a sense of self and self-confidence as they master skills like writing their name, learning to read, and tying their own shoelaces.
Older School-Age Children
Older school-age children begin to put a lot of attention and effort in their peer relationships, hobbies, and other interests. Older children have greatly improved their motor skills but intellectually process things in black and white concepts.
