The Summit on the Park's Preschool Program knows that busy moms need information at their fingertips. Enjoy this quarterly eNewsletter, which is packed full of useful information such as details on upcoming events, things to remember, a tasty recipe, program information and more.

For additional information on all preschool programs available at the Summit on the Park,
call 734/394-5374 or visit www.cantonfun.org. 

The Importance of Play

Play is an integral part of children’s lives and according to a recent report by the American Association of Pediatrics is “essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Play also offers an ideal opportunity for parents to engage fully with their children.”

There are many ways to actively play but one of the main focuses should allow for undirected play. “Undirected play allows children to work in groups, to share, to negotiate, to resolve conflicts and to learn self advocacy skills.  When play is allowed to be child driven, children practice decision-making skills, move at their own pace, discover their own areas of interest, and ultimately engage fully in the passions they wish to pursue.”…” In contrast to passive entertainment, play builds active, healthy bodies. In fact, it has been suggested that encouraging unstructured play may be an exceptional way to increase physical activity levels in children, which is one important strategy in the resolution of the obesity epidemic. Perhaps above all, play is a simple joy that is a cherished part of childhood.”
Article courtesy of: American Association of Pediatrics News & Journals, January 2007.

Check out a similar article from Parents Magazine based on the American Association of Pediatrics report of "The Importance of Play."

Undirected Play

Ideas for incorporating undirected play into your daily life can include going on nature walks together, all while allowing your child to lead and be curious by checking out all the things they may encounter along the way.  Observing bugs, birds, animals, flowers, trees, and more can provide wonderful learning opportunities.  Seeing things through a child’s eyes as they experience nature can provide a whole new perspective for adults.

Other ideas to stimulate undirected play can include providing easy access to art stations with paper, crayons, glue, and more.  This art activity should be open ended allowing the children to freely express their creativity and imagination.  By asking your child to elaborate upon their project and explain it to you, the thought and feeling behind it can provide great insight, even if the answer is simply “I really like the color pink.”

Tie Dye T-Shirts Using Permanent Markers

• Pre-wash white T-Shirts (no fabric softener or drier sheets)
• Newspaper or plastic to add in between t-shirt layers
• Variety of permanent markers, such as Sharpie
• Rubbing Alcohol (use with adult supervision only)
• Eye dropper
• Protected work surface

1. Allow child to draw whatever design they wish on their T-Shirt with the multiple colors of permanent markers
2. Use the eyedropper to drop rubbing alcohol over the design and watch the colors spread, providing a tie dyed blending effect
3. Allow the t-shirt to fully dry. It can be washed normally and worn.