INDUSTRY INSIGHT
PARENTING
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES & PARK PLAY WITH YOUR CHILDREN
A day at the park may seem like “ just another day ,” but learning and bonding experiences flourish at the park !
Pack for Safety
Drinking water and water to wash , sunscreen , hat , wipes for hands , sneakers or other closed-toe shoes , a change of clothes or a towel for the seat , small first-aid kit for those little scrapes , and a small trash bag to keep the Earth litter-free are all important .
Expect to Get Dirty
Going outside is about the freedom to explore , and the only way to explore is to touch it ; and yes , it is dirty – it ’ s outside ! Dirty does not mean “ germy .” Roll in the grass , stomp in the mud , touch the frog and splash in the puddles .
INFANT TO 6 MONTHS
• Pack for safety : A blanket to crawl on and a sturdy pair of pants for crawling on rough surfaces . Be prepared to change diapers on the go .
• Be prepared to climb and crawl yourself . This is the best way for
SPONSORED CONTENT
you to ensure your child ’ s safety . Watch for items going into your child ’ s mouth .
• Hydration : The outside air and activity increases the amount of fluids you both need to consume . And while you ’ re packing the water , pack a snack .
• Point , name and describe : As your child explores , point out the details ; name objects and talk about your experience .
FIRST STEPS ( 12 TO 18 MONTHS )
• Pack for safety : Bring a blanket and a sturdy pair of pants for crawling on rough surfaces . This is not the place for skirts or dresses .
• Plan for breaks and pack snacks , water and a few books .
• Dig and touch : Collect items to further explore when you get home .
• Walk the trail as your little one is on a riding toy . Don ’ t forget the helmet .
• Park play etiquette : If your little one finds a playmate , ask the other parent if both of you may join in the play . Your child will learn to ask for your approval before playing with strangers and the parent of the other child will appreciate this overture .
READY . SET . GOddard !
We help children explore and discover their interests through play in a safe environment . We provide ample opportunities for fun learning experiences , promoting a lifelong love of learning in literacy , science , technology , engineering , arts and mathematics .
NOW ENROLLING ALL AGES , INCLUDING KINDERGARTEN !
PETERS TOWNSHIP ( VENETIA ) • 724-941-6464 PITTSBURGH ( UPPER SAINT CLAIR ) • 412-564-3600
TODDLER AND ‘ GET SET ’ ( 18 TO 36 MONTHS )
• Plot the potty path !
• Bring balls to throw and kick or bean bags and a bucket .
• Move beyond the park and walk a trail or explore a nursery . Go to the stream , lake or pond and skip rocks . Turn the rocks over to find creepy , crawly things .
• No breaks required , but pause for a moment to rehydrate .
• Look through binoculars – even two toilet paper tubes offer a new view of the world .
• Tent it ! A pop-up tent is an instant playhouse .
• Take an umbrella and put on your galoshes – take a walk in the light rain .
PRESCHOOL TO PRE-K ( 36 MONTHS +)
• Lie down and look up : Children like to see the world from a different perspective .
• Picnic : Let your child be a part of packing the necessities and preparing the sandwiches .
• Play “ I Spy ” or “ I Hear .”
• Read or draw under the trees .
• Bring a magnifying cup for bugs and objects to view . Research your bugs and objects when you return home to learn more about them .
This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo .
GoddardSchool . com
The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems , Inc . Programs and ages may vary . Goddard Systems , Inc . program is AdvancED accredited . © Goddard Systems , Inc . 2018
Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School ®, located at 825 East McMurray Road in Peters Township , 724.941.6464 , and 655 Painters Run Road , Upper St . Clair , 412.564.3600 . Goddard offers both full- and part-time infant / preschool / kindergarten programs . For more information , visit www . goddardschools . com / Pittsburgh .
BETHEL PARK ❘ SUMMER 2018 13