 
When children play they are not only having fun, they also are learning about the world around them.
By playing make-believe games with children, you can also help them learn skills they will need when they enter kindergarten.
- Through play children learn many new words and how to express themselves with words.
- Through play, children learn to plan, that is, put ideas or objects in order.
- Through play, children learn social skills, such as politeness, sharing, cooperation, taking turns, and understanding emotions.
- Through play, children practice motor skills (how to move their bodies) including important school skills, such as using a pencil or crayon.
- Through play, children expand their imaginations and become more creative.
- Through play, children learn numbers, colors and shapes.
- Through play, children learn to concentrate, pay attention, and stay with a task until it is done.
- Best of all, children are happier, livelier and less aggressive when they play make-believe games.
Play the games with preschool children for at least ten to fifteen minutes a day. You can help children develop many skills they will need when they enter school.
You don't have to buy anything. All you need are the Materials pages from this web site and some everyday household items. |
HOW TO PLAY
THE LEARNING GAMES
Before You Play Each Game:
- Read the GOALS for the game. They explain the game's educational purposes.
- Read the MATERIALS for the game. This explains what you need to play the game – everyday items from your house and “Materials” pages.
- Read the SET UP instructions for the game. This explains how to set up the materials.
- Read the STORY and game instructions by yourself before you play the game with children. In each game, words to teach children are in red type, like this.
Playing Each Game:
- You can play each game with one, two, three or more children.
- Tell the STORY to children, then follow the instructions for that game.
- Keep the GOALS in mind as you play.
- At the end of each game, praise the children for doing a good job.
After You Play Each Game:
- Do one of the ACTIVITIES listed below the instructions for the game.
- Try a different ACTIVITY each time you play.
Then, Repeat the Game.
- Children learn something new each time you play.
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