The Purpose of Play — by Guest Mom Marie

Most kids don't realize they're "learning" as they play. Most adults don't realize that kids are "learning" as they play. Playing for children is natural, helps them learn about the world, and supports their development.



Play comes in all shapes and sizes. Whether it is with cars, blocks, dolls, or dress-ups, your child is learning. Most of the time, they are learning to be adults. We drive cars, we build buildings, we have babies, and we dress-up as we go to a job. Children are simply mimicking what goes on in grownup life.



Through the website Bella Dia, I recently found Sir Ken Robinson's speech at a TED conference 2 years ago. Sir Robinson is a child advocate for creativity in the classroom and tries to help us understand the importance of keeping it alive. The video is 20 minutes long, but very entertaining and educational. He talks about the roll of the education system with creativity, but I think anyone can learn from this and encourage more creative in the home.

During one of my Elementary Education courses in college I learned this Ancient Chinese Proverb that really hits home: "Tell Me, I forget. Show Me, I remember. Involve Me, I understand." I have tried to live by this as it rings true for many things in life. I try to think about the "process" my child is involved with, not necessarily the final "product".

The new book, The Creative Family — How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections, has just come out by author Amanda Blake Soule. She's a great example of how to involve your child. She tries to involve her children in all areas of creativity, helping them learn and play at the same time.

Another great resource for Nurturing Creativity is Ginger Carlson's book, Child of Wonder — Nurturing Creativity and Naturally Curious Children. Visit The Artful Parent to find out more about Ginger in an in depth interview and a chance to win a free book.

Sometimes it can be overwhelming to find something creative to do with your children. Whether you're Mom, Dad, Grandparents, or friend, you can help encourage a child's learning through their play. Ask lots of inquiring questions. Talk about colors, counting, sorting, letters, rhyming. Find those learning moments with a child that will encourage their creativity even more. They are learning as they play.