The idea of playing and learning can seem counterintuitive. However, this is the way children learn during the early years of education. The value of play in creating a holistic environment is enormous. It is through play that children learn so many basic skills.
Play is an aspect of learning that children enjoy. It is not threatening and the environment around the game is attractive. Giving children the right play materials and the right environment to play encompasses the principles of holistic development.
Parents should give their little ones time to explore and become familiar with their surroundings. Creating a safe play environment with the right toys and educational resources is also important.
The safe gaming environment
Knowing that you have a safe environment for your child to play is a very important aspect of holistic education. Parents need to be calm when it comes to the activities their children participate in. Children need a safe area where they can explore freely and actively.
Here are some points to consider when creating that safe area for play activities.
- Make sure the floor is level, with a protective covering. It could be a rubber mat or rug, but something to protect your child from the inevitable heavy falls.
- Keep your outdoor gear age appropriate. Remember to check if it is safe to use, if it does not have any unwanted nails or chips, and if it is in good condition.
- Arrange the equipment so that there is enough room to run between the items.
- Watch out for sharp edges or dangerous pointy toys. Avoid these types of toys, especially with your young child.
- If the play area is outside, it must be a fenced-in area for safety. In particular, you have to be on the lookout for any type of water hazard.
- Keep all dangerous substances away from a free play area. You must know that your child is safe so that a free exploration can be performed.
- Buy toys wisely. Check the size, not too small with refills that can be a choking hazard or too large and unmanageable. It is advisable to check what materials they are made from to see if there are any parts that may fall or are peeling and breaking.
- Organize the toys and store them in a safe and accessible place. A toy basket is a good idea so that toys can be easily stored at 'order time'.
- Don't take out too many toys at once. Rather, choose a few at a time and change the contents of the toy basket from time to time.
- Show your child how to play with toys to teach him to respect the things he plays with. This is especially true for books. Show your child how to turn the pages and not tear the paper of beautiful storybooks.