by Lianne Castelino www.whereparentstalk.com
Had the absolute pleasure of being involved in a unique event over the weekend — the Fisher-Price Ultimate Playdate presented by Parents Canada.
Unique and innovative in so many ways — the purpose was to celebrate play, and to draw attention to milestones in a young child's life as they relate to play and having fun.
Fisher-Price has devised an innovative way to help parents select toys that correspond to the specific milestones a child may be experiencing. The eight milestones are: Soothe, Sense, Move, Discover, Socialize, Learn, Create, Imagine.
Each of these eight milestones were represented in eight playzones complete with toys, balloons, Early Childhood Educators or play-coaches, face-painting, an artwall, DJ, food, a juggler, a bouncy chair for adults (yes you read right!), the Fisher-Price critters – Eddie and Sonya-Lee and special guests — Dr. Marla Shapiro (mom of 3 and Parents Canada Editor), Kathy Buckworth (mom of 4 and Humour Columnist) and Sharon Vinderine (mom of 2 and Founder of PTPA Media) — these moms shared their fascinating perspectives on play.
It was truly a magical celebration of something that many parents, myself included, take for granted —- what children learn through play, and what parents learn about their children by watching them play.
In a world where many children have less freedom to roam free, discover their world, play uninhibited (like we used to as kids), it is a message that is truly worth remembering, celebrating and sharing. The power of play is truly amazing —- whether you are a baby, toddler, tween, teen or adult.
After all — who among us doesn't like to have fun?
