Just about every child will learn to read, do math, reason, use a computer and do all kinds of other intelligent things. But a lot of parents worry about how to boost brain power and stimulate social and intellectual development. It turns out there actually is something that helps. Across the board. I’m going to […]
young children
Starting to Become “Me”
Forming one’s self identity begins in early childhood, shortly after children begin to recognize themselves in a mirror, a milestone that often emerges around 18 months or so. The classic test of self recognition is the “rouge” test. If you’d like to try it, discretely place a dot of cream blush or lipstick (or watercolor […]
Play part 3: Building cognitive, social skills & emotional skills
Social play with peers is particularly important because, unlike play with a parent, in which there is an implicit power structure, peer interactions have a more even distribution of power. Peer play places children in control, providing opportunities for self-directed learning and learning through shared experiences. In particular, social play lets children explore ways […]
Play part 2: Types of Play
Developmental scientists classify play into a number of different types, notably object play, physical play, and pretend play. Each of these can become forms of social play when they are shared with another person. Each of these three general forms of play emerge in infancy, during the 12 – 24 month period. The very first […]
Play, part 1: The Power of Play
It is easy to underestimate the value of play. As adults, our “play” takes place during leisure time and we see it as fun and lighthearted. We regard it as recreational, with no practical purpose, other than unwinding, having fun, or spending time with friends. It nurtures us, but we don’t regard it as serious. […]