Spending time playing with your children is not only fun and healthy for both parent and child, but it literally changes brain chemistry for our children! Special play time is a dedicated part of the daily routine in which a parent and child remove other distractions and focus on playfulness and connection with one another. It can be short and sweet, and doesn't require any special toys or training. It encourages children to have a stronger attention span, a more balanced mood, cooperative behavior, and stronger social connections with others. For parents or teachers who have behavioral concerns for their children, I often suggest adding 10 minutes of special play time into the daily routine. Research has indicated that 10 minutes of connection and play reduces power struggles in a classroom or home setting by 50% or more! Try adding this simple, fun daily routine and watch as your child smiles and cooperates for the rest of the day! If you have difficulty finding the extra time because of demanding schedules and life stressors, then add playfulness to a part of your daily routine that is already in place, such as the car ride or bath time. And if you're not sure what to do during special play time, let your child lead the way! All you have to do is let go of other distractions, such as cell phones, television, or chores, get down on the floor, and enjoy.
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For many of us, it has been such a difficult year. We may have experienced loss, worry, fear, and change. This year has been especially hard for the most vulnerable among us, including children. We may all be in need of extra mental health support to help with coping, recovery, and day-to-day life. If you find yourself in need of mental health support, please ask someone for help. You may be able to get help through your doctor, your employer, a community support network, or a loved one. Our children may also need extra support, and the best way to help them is often to slow down, spend more time together, connect, and play. Take a moment to read this quote. Take a breath, let it sink in, and look for ways in your life to connect meaningfully with your young children, for their benefit and for your own!
Wishing you well! Ms. Brie |
AuthorHi, I'm Brie Krentz, and I'm the School Psychologist at HGECC. I care about the social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health of all of our children, and I believe in Conscious Discipline as a way to minimize behavior problems and to help children connect meaningfully with others. Archives
October 2021
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