February 15th, 2008 Thought of the week Posted by Melitsa in play activities, Seasonal play, Thought of the week

“It starts at home and not by you sitting on the couch and telling the kids to go out and play. They need your attention and your enthusiasm.”

Pam Kirk of Richmond Community Schools

This week was mild enough on some days to go outside. I wrapped them up and sent them out, just like the quote above. Just like yo-yos they were back inside within 10 minutes. I had estimated at least 30 minutes of play activity outside but they just wanted to see what I was doing inside.

With a little frustration, I must admit, as I wanted to get a few things done, I abandoned my chores and went outside with the intention of showing them some ideas to do.

We filled the pull along truck with snow from the little shovels and went on a pretend journey. ( Never did find out where with the muffled sounds from the hood up on my son).

We drew lines, toddler and our names in the snow. Then used stones to try and make shapes and letters.

We tried kicking the ball but it got stuck in the snow. The little guy followed footprints of the cat until he walked into the fence….poor thing. They bounced on the snowy mini trampoline to watch the snow bounce with them.

At this point 15minutes or so had passed and they were having a ball….probably because I had joined them. I slipped back inside and managed 10 minutes of time before cold faces pressed on the door.

OK I didn’t get what I wanted done but if my Maths is right that’s 35 minutes of activity outside. They came in much calmer,worn out and full of talk. Anyone would think I had not just been out there with them. It was lovely to see.

We had warm hot chocolate ( the only way my little guys drink it after months of pilfering my cup when it’s put down) and the last slice of carrot cake.

Enthusiasm really is contagious.

***When did you last go out and play with your kids? Share some of your ideas. ***

Melitsa Avila is a former teacher, mother of three boys and military wife who talks about living an intentional play lifestyle using practical and everyday play activities to do with the under 5s. She publishes related ebooks & newsletters. Melitsa is the host and producer of a weekly Early Childhood radio show: Raising Playful Tots bringing parents and carers together with Early childhood practitioners. Thanks for reading!

Melitsa

View all posts by Melitsa
Melitsas website

Technorati Tags: play, snow, pretend