Good Parenting

Ask yourself this question, “Is my child using their creative imagination?”. If you have to think about the answer to this question, the answer is probably no. In today’s technology based world, this is a common problem among children. Our children engage in many activities that are focused on structure, skill building and electronics. Children today are accustomed to playing with toys that give specific instruction, movies and television that present them with someone else’s ideas, computers that use other peoples programs and rules, and classes, and sports in which someone instructs them in what to do, and how to do it. Although all of these are important, it is equally important for your child to engage in imaginative play.

Imaginative play is the act of doing whatever you want with basic objects you come in contact with everyday.

Developing a child’s imagination helps them to get ahead mentally and socially. Increasing the use of their imagination also helps them to be able to deal better with real life situations.

As a parent it is our role to identify weather our child is using their imagination. There are many things we can do as a parent to encourage our child to use their imagination. The best way to encourage imaginative play in our child is to get involved in your child’s playtime. Let your child be in charge, let them guide you and instruct you in playtime. Help by Loosening the boundaries of their playtime. Create an environment were they feel safe, an environment were they feel they can be creative. When choosing manufactured toys, choose ones that encourage creativity.

Have fun engaging in creative imaginative play with your child. This type of playtime is bound to create some of the most memorable experiences you will have with your child.