Playing: An Activity with a Whole Loads of Benefits for Your Little One

Does Mommy know that playing is the Little Person's right since he/she was born? This is confirmed by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights. Playing is not only a relaxation activity for the Little One but also can help the development of the Little One’s brain and intelligence.

Various study results have been able to prove that playing has many benefits for the Little One. The pioneer of developmental psychology, Lev Vygotsky, argues that playing is an important key to the growth and development of the Little One in Preschool age. Through playing, the Little One can learn as well as practice a lot of basic social skills. Playing develops creativity, imagination, independence, and interaction with other children. By playing together, the Little One will also sharpen his/her language skills and he/she will also be better able to solve problems that may arise in the future.

Mildren Parten, a sociologist and researcher at the University of Minnesota Children's Growing Institute, conducted a study in late 1920. He studied the behaviors of two- to five-year-olds and then categorized children into six types. The study is published in the Abnormal and Social Psychology journal. What are the six ways of children’s playing? Check out the following:

Unstructured game (Unoccupied play)

This type of game is for the baby. Mommy can invite the Little One to chat, sing while moving his/her body parts passively.

Independent or solitary play

Generally this type of game is preferred by the Little One age over 1 year old. The Little One will learn to play alone by reading books, building blocks, and playing puzzles, playing cooking, and so on. The ability of the Little One’s Imagination will be honed well.

Game of observation (onlooker play)

This is usually performed by the Little One age aged 2-3 years. He/she will observe or imitate his/her friend while playing but still can not play together. Take the Little One to the playground and let him/her observe the activities of the children there.

Parallel play

The Little One will start playing with other kids. He/she will learn to interact with others. Mommy can already teach the concept of sharing, though it may still be difficult to be understood by the Little One. Yet, it is important to be tough. Invite the Little One to read the book together, play in the park, and involve the Little One in the conversation involving other children.

Associative play

The Little One’s imagination will grow. Mommy can provide white paper and coloring tools such as crayons or watercolors. Let him/her explore with his/her imagination. At this time, Mommy can begin to introduce with the game of taking a role (pretend play), such as playing as a mother or a doctor.

Cooperative play

This type of game is for the Little One age over 5 years old. Activities that can be done include playing ball, hide and seek, plot of fort, and others. The Little One will learn on how to work with his/her playmates.

Playing is a fun stimulation for the Little One. A good game is not only fun but also can sharpen the intelligence of the Little One. Mommy can find creative play ideas that have been adapted to the Little One’s age group on Morinaga Multiple Intelligence Play Plan. Therefore, Mommy is not confused anymore, the Little One is happy and getting smarter.