We all want our child to shine. In this increasingly competitive world, is signing up for ballet, swimming or music lessons now the best way for her/him to excel later? Not necessarily. While classes can expose your child to new things and spice up your day, overscheduling can actually hurt your child. At this age, kids learn as much, if not more, by playing than in structured classes.
Question: Should I set up structured activities for my preschooler, or just let her play on her own? Expert Answers Judith Hudson, developmental psychologist
Both structured and free-form play contribute significantly — and in different ways — to your preschooler's development. Your child is learning a lot while she plays — problem solving, skill building, and how to overcome physical and mental challenges. Children enrolled in all-day preschool will have plenty of opportunities for both types of play at school. Kids attending a half-day program may need more time for free play at home because of the short school day.
Fantasy play should remain unstructured so your child can use her imagination and work on her problem-solving skills. She'll change from mom to teacher to doctor in minutes. Your job: Provide the props (dolls, stuffed animals, a chalk board, toy versions of tools, pots and pans, medical instruments). You can also be your child's playmate. Be sure to follow your preschooler's lead or expand her play — don't direct it. Ask open-ended questions such as, "I wonder where all these cars could go?" or "What do you think farmers do on the farm?" Commenting on the ongoing activity is also a great way to be involved. While watching your child put her teddy bear to bed, for instance, you could say, "Your teddy bear is all tucked in. He looks very sleepy." Avoid asking her too many direct questions during make-believe play, such as "What are you doing?" and "What is that?" because answering questions can take away from the fun.
Free playtime on the playground is also important for preschoolers to hone their motor skills. Hopscotch takes balance, climbing the jungle gym takes strength, and team sports involve coordination. Preschoolers may also enjoy structured group games such as Duck Duck Goose. And at around age 4 some kids begin to enjoy simple board games, though they often resist playing by the printed rules. Be flexible and let your preschooler bends the rule a bit.
