Keep your Preschooler Active
by courtkneeYour preschooler is developing important motor skills. For the first time in their lives, they will be able to jump, skip, hop, catch a ball and balance on one foot. It is important to encourage your child’s physical development by incorporating at least 60 minutes of activity during the day. For most preschoolers, this is not a problem. They are naturally very active and playful. Encourage your child to remain active by engaging with them in structured play. Some ideas for activities you can do together include playing catch with a softball or waffle ball, playing tag, dancing to music together, singing an “activity song” (such as Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes) and doing active housework together.
One of the best ways to get your preschooler and entire family moving is to take a walk together in the evening. This provides an opportunity for bonding combined with the benefits of exercise. However, for your preschooler the idea of a brisk walk might seem boring. To keep them interested, you can make a game out of the walk. You can play “I Spy” with your child along your route and point out interesting sights. You can make the walk a scavenger hunt and try to find a short list of items along the way. Also, you can try singing songs or encouraging your child to count various items on your route. This will keep them interested in the walk and also encourage other skills, such as logic, math and music.
Additionally, it is important to allow lots of time for unstructured play that will help them develop both physically and creatively. To encourage unstructured play let your child choose from a variety of activities such as dress up clothes, exploring, puzzles and art. Pretend play is important in physical and cognitive development.
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