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6 Play
Activities That Are Better for
Your Children
by James Druman
There are plenty of activities these days that are not so healthy
or mentally stimulating for a child. And with parents facing the strain of a
tight economy and even those who are well-off working to keep up with their
lifestyle, parents aren't always around to guide children in the right
direction. Add in less than ideal temptations of a modern world, and there are
plenty of ways to go astray.
But by taking an active role in the types of hobbies your child develops,
you can encourage a healthier development process that hopefully leads down more
productive paths. Encourage ways of living, and of thinking, that are different
than the norm, and you can do a lot for creating a more promising future.
Here are 6 play activities that are simply good for your child.
1. Chess
With all these wild video games out there defying all of our senses, simply
titillating and more entertaining than everything, nobody gives much thought to
chess anymore. But it is and always will be a great game for testing and
strengthening our thought processes.
Chess is a game that is played in silent aristocratic halls where no one
speaks as well as on street corners in modern America, with hip hop music
blasting in the background. And no matter what the environment, it encourages
the development of a thinking, problem-solving mind.
2. Puzzles
In the same way, puzzles encourage problem-solving. There are all kinds of
great puzzles that improve cognitive processes, from jigsaw puzzles to mind
benders to Sudoku.
3. Art
One of the best creative pursuits for a child, and one that comes very
naturally, is art. Whether painting, drawing, writing, or making crafts, art
encourages thinking outside of the box and can lead to a lifetime passion.
4. Music
Music, much like art, is a great avenue for self expression. It can be a bit
challenging for younger children with shorter attention spans, so don't push too
much regimented practice in these earlier times. But that doesn't mean you can't
let them do their own thing. A day will come when they'll want to find out more
about what the instrument can do.
5. Reading
Reading is taken for granted perhaps more than any other worthwhile
pursuit—people don't realize how lucky we are to just have this ability.
Children can grow their minds, find answers to their problems, and inspire their
imaginations through a book. And that's just the beginning...
6. Outside Play
Finally, don't forget your child's need for exercise. Outdoor play as
opposed to being crammed in a house day after day and never getting fresh air is
extremely important. Show your children the rewards of an active lifestyle, and
as they get older, they can transition into sports, which is one of the best
ways to give them a solid foundation for their physical, emotional, and social
lives.
One great way to encourage active outdoor play is to set up a
playset structure in your backyard where your kids can have a blast and
socialize with friends. To learn more about
Charlotte swing sets and playsets, go to
http://superiorplay.com . |
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