Use Your Imagination

Imagination games are not only affordable; they are a necessary way to encourage your little one to use his or her mind to the fullest. Studies have shown that children who are encouraged to use their imaginations build skills that will benefit them later in life.

Here are some ways to encourage imagination-play with your child:

• Use the concept of Mr. Dressup's costume trunk that many of us grew up with. Put into it any old clothes or fun costume pieces such as hats, etc. and on special occasions or rainy days, don the clothes with your child to pretend you are someone else or make up stories together.
• Try closing your eyes with your little one and take turns telling a story from scratch.
• Neutral ‘toys' such as cardboard boxes, sponges or scarves can be given to your little one. Kids can create space ships, zoos and more.
• Backyard treasure hunts for hidden objects that you place can lead to all sorts of fun discoveries. Trees can become monsters, hills can be places to hide behind and every where you look something can transform into something else.
• Teach your child to paint objects such as old egg cartons or stones. Again, not all toys need be purchased, and when so many household objects can be used for so many different things, it is a shame to let the opportunities go to waste.

By Chris Giardino