Summer Play Activities
As summer comes around again, there are a multitude of activities parents and children can do together. I hope this article gives parents some new ideas to try. As a parent, I often wandered what role I should “play” in my children’s “play”. Now I believe there is no right or wrong when it comes to children and playtime, as long as children are having fun. Parents can join their children as they are playing. Parents can also allow children to lead the game or activity. However, it is not necessary to break in when children are happily playing alone.
It’s important to give children experiences that involve learning, encouraging them to explore new ideas and master new abilities. For summer fun, encourage bike-riding, rollerblading, swimming, playing in the sand at the beach or a box in the backyard, and playing games outside, such as hide n’ seek or Simon says.
A fun idea for parents and children to try is to go on a nature hunt. What is needed for the hunt is a grocery store paper bag and clear vinyl adhesive paper. Take a walk outside and talk about things you find on the ground. Hand your child the paper bag and encourage him/her to put interesting things in the bag, such as a wildflower or interesting rock. Your sense of wonder is a major part of this activity. Be enthusiastic about your child’s choices! When you return home, invite your child to spread the “treasures” on a newspaper. Talk about them together, using descriptive language. Place a piece of clear adhesive paper down (the sticky side up) and let your child arrange the objects. Then tape her/his work of art to a window so light can shine through.
Some places to visit in the community include: area libraries, YMCA, parks and playgrounds, the zoo, various museums, festivals, fairs, the aquarium, and the many lakes we are blessed with in Minnesota! Give your children a lot of experiences this summer! Discover fun together!
Jill Phillips
ECFE Parent Educator
Summer Reading Program
The summer reading program runs June 7th through July 30th, 2010.
Make a Splash! Read! It’s easy & fun! Sign up in the Virginia Public Library’s Children’s Room, set your goals & read throughout the summer. Programs for preschoolers through teens. Read with Chia! Our favorite reading dog, Chia, will be back this summer to read with you on Friday mornings. Book a date with Chia in the Children’s Room. Also read books in July to win free food, free admission, & a free ride at the St. Louis County Fair. Call 748-7525 for more information or check out www.virginia.lib.mn.us. Remember you can renew your books online or by calling 748-7525.
Virginia Public Library, 215 5th Ave. So, Virginia, MN.
Summer Library Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 6 pm. Fridays 9 am to 5 pm. Closed weekends.