Technique 92 – Use the four attributes of play value to invite your child into the wonderful world of play.
Something interesting to
1. See
2. Touch
3. Interact
4. Experience surprise
The best toy in the world is of no value if nobody wants to play with it. It could be fantastic looking and expensive, but if it lacks play value, no one will play with it. Play value means that it has to have the real qualities that attract play.
Parenting Insight…
Measure any unformed toy against these qualities, and you will see the picture clearly. For example, take a set of blocks. Whether in colors, natural wood, or some other material, they are always interesting to see and touch; and they are there for playing alone or for playing and interacting with others. About surprise, it is built right into the play. What will your child make? Nobody knows until he or she makes it. Your child may choose to make the same thing over and over, or he or she may decide to create something new each time. It is a totally freeform activity, and it fully belongs to your child.
Here is a list of high play value easily accessible toys and materials. Many include making the toy as part of the play. As with all toys for children, keep your eye on your child at all times to ensure their safe usage. Always be on the lookout for objects that are too small for your child and that could be swallowed.
Balls
Blocks
Building sets
Putty, clay, and play dough
Pegs and pegboards
Beads for stringing
Dolls (male and female)
Dried beans in homemade beanbags
Sock puppets
Puppets made out of tongue depressors or other flat wooden sticks
Puppets made out of paper bags
Unbreakable mirrors
Old telephones
Old clothes
Old jewelry
Butterflies made out of coffee filters
Flower carnations made out of filters
April! The Month of Volunteering
I feel the capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.
~ Pablo Casals
Spanish musician
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