Creative Play At Day Care
The safety and well being of the kids at our day care is our primary responsibility as providers. We are not however merely babysitters, nor referees at some chaotic miniature wrestling event (though often times it feels that way) but facilitators, entrusted with the important task of nurturing and developing the whole child. Encouraging creativity and imagination is a vital aspect of this facilitation role. Opening the door to various creative outlets will ensure that children will lead a richer more complete life. Here are some pointers on opening those doors.
Kids will learn to grow and appreciate the arts, culture and beauty following even small amounts of exposure to same. When possible arrange brief visits to the art gallery, museum or craft fair so that kids get an overview of different forms of art. Introduce music to the curriculum by playing different styles of music and have the kids dance and move about plus arrange trips to see plays and musical performances. Get out on nature walks to show the kids first hand the natural beauty surrounding them, introduce sand and water for experimental play and discover the multitude of creative activities available in the kitchen. Reading is vital and should be encouraged. Stories at story time can become rambling yarns that become plays that take on a life of their own. No limits!
A love of music is naturally inbuilt into kids. Get the musical instruments out (improvise with household items if necessary), let them rock out (suffer the headache!it's a good cause!). Begin having theatrical, singing workshops that breathe life and vibrancy into songs. The subsequent endeavors may well be dubious (songs that are vaguely punk rockish rather than melodious, artistic attempts that resemble puke) but all expression should be praised and discussed.
Creativity demands that there be mess so allow it. Neat and tidy playrooms tend not to encourage creative spirits so put your happy face on, roll up your sleeves and revel in the mess. Laying newspapers, spreading a tarp and using art aprons can help minimize some of the damage. Don't attempt to direct the artistic efforts unfolding around you just let them develop. Freedom of expression leads to personal works of art no matter what age the artist. If your help is requested lend a hand, discuss works in progress, ask questions but avoid critiques. The benefits of creative and imaginative play are many and wondrous. Children feel unthreatened in imaginary situations and are more likely to experiment with their verbal skills. Role play can encourage them to express worries or fears and can also thus leading to active problem solving. Creativity can help unlock hitherto untapped talents leading to increased confidence in a child. Most importantly, boredom becomes a thing of the past when the magical kingdom of the imagination has been unlocked.
Fiona Lohrenz shares her 10 years experience of running a day care on her website where you'll also find her 'Start a ChildCare Business' DVD guide: Start A Day Care Business DVD She can be reached at: ChildCareOnly.com
Published June 2nd, 2008
Filed in Business, Home Business