Get creative: babies play to learn

The owners of Mini Maestros Geelong and Bellarine have noted a new educational shift gaining momentum.

With the emergence of play-based learning, many are now giving greater and well-deserved value to creativity.

Here are some tips from Mini Maestros on how to foster creative play at home:

• Invent scenarios that might stimulate a child’s imagination. Children around 12-18 months often begin to display an understanding of imaginative play where dolls are rocked, cars go broom and animals make sounds. Draw from real-life familiar scenarios or introduce them to new ideas through books and images.
• It might be part of your daily routine to read picture books with your child. Every now and then move away from the text by asking your child questions about what they see in the pictures, and encourage them to assist with the storytelling process.
• Allow your child to make mistakes. If you see your child about to make a safe mistake, let it happen and celebrate the learning that results. Children who are afraid of failure and judgement will curb their own creative thought.
• Set aside craft time. Some children will love being given a free rein with a whole range of materials whereas others may prefer a purpose (making a card for Grandma) to stimulate their ideas. Ask your child questions about their work, such as why they choose to use certain colours.
• Have fun with nonsense. Mixing up the actions to simple songs like “Open Shut them”, putting dress-up clothes on the wrong way or changing the words to a well-known story will tickle your child’s sense of humour and encourage playfulness.

Mini Maestros offer a play-based music program that aims to foster creative, confident well-rounded learners.

Free come and try classes are offered each school holidays, email [email protected] or visit minimaestros.com.au for more information.