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An
overview of the development of way in which a child plays and ultimately
learns about the world around him from birth to age 5.
There
is nothing more frustrating you or your child than trying to get him to
accomplish something he is not yet capable of doing. You need to
understand your child’s abilities and limitations to avoid such
frustrations. I have outlined the basic characteristics of children’s
play development from birth to age five for you. This information has
been derived from my formal education, my many years of teaching and of
course, being a Mom. Whatever the age or stage of your child enjoy them
as they pass from one stage to the next. If you would like to know more
detail about each stage of child development you need to look no further
than your local library or bookstore. There are countless books out
there that go into great detail about child-development. Another avenue
to investigate regarding child development is your local college. They
will usually offer mini-courses on this topic just for parents. Always
keep in mind that each child develops at his/her own pace so don’t
rush them!
Birth to 12 Months
From birth until about one year of age babies develop at an incredible
rate. Each day these little wonders gain more and more control over
their bodies. They learn how to hold up their heads; roll over; sit
unassisted; crawl; and for some they can walk. During this time babies
learn about their bodies. They are aware of their fingers and toes and
find much amusement in playing with them. They even begin to recognize
their name. Communication skills are also developing. At first babies
cry to have their needs met. Later they babble, razz their tongues and
say mama and dada. As time passes they play with more and more sounds
and begin to connect them to a few close people and objects.
12
Months to 3 Years
Call them Waddlers or Toddlers but children this age are on the move!
For the next two years these little darlings are constantly working on
their coordination and language skills. They thrive on routines, as a
sense of security so be sure to include them in your day-to-day doings.
They are becoming more independent and often demand to do things for
themselves. Give them plenty of opportunities to make their own
decisions such as "Would you like to have milk in your red cup or
blue cup?"
They are also very curious and are constantly exploring their
environment and the objects within. They are intent on figuring out how
a toy works, what happens to it when they drop it, throw it or bang it.
Note: Make sure toys are sturdy enough to handle these investigations.
They touch, taste, listen and look at everything! Expect it and plan for
it by providing a safe hands-on environment with as many harmless things
to explore. I hope I don’t have to tell you to supervise this curious
age at all times, no matter how safe you think you have made it,
accidents can and will happen.
The young Waddler/Toddler group, 12 to about 24 months, tend to play
alongside others rather than with them in a collaborative way. And by
all means, do not expect them to share; it is not in their make-up at
this time.
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