Playing is Learning
Many child psychologists advocate ‘playing as learning’. The act of playing can be critical in developing your child’s creativity and useful for him even as an adult.
Your child’s capacity to learn differs from yours in quality. While notes and bullet points may work for some adults, it is better for your child to learn through playing. To maximise his learning, the lesson should be provided in a way that is fun.
The type of activity he engages in will also play a part in his development. Choose a game that meets his developmental needs at that particular stage. For example, shape matching teaches spatial skills, while chasing a ball builds muscular coordination.
A few key points to note when promoting play-learning:
- Always create an environment that is fun to play;
- Your child plays based on internal motivation;
- Never force your child to play;
- Imagination is infinite, and the best way he can play;
- Encourage active participation rather than passive observation.
The best types of games that your child can play is one that trains ‘divergent thinking’. These games allow him to come up with the solutions himself, enabling greater confidence for bigger challenges. Be sure to allow him to solve the problem rather than spoon-feed him or put him down. This also cultivates his creativity, an essential trait for future success.
