When my kindergartner comes home from school, I, like every
other parent, ask the same age old question, “What did you do today?”
The answer: “play”.
Of all the activities they do; read, write, count, paint,
build blocks, why is the answer always simply, “play”? Maybe it’s because they
value being able to create, invent, and use their imaginations.
In a January 2012 AAP news report, Dr. Milteer, lead author
of a clinical report that focuses on the critical role of unstructured play for
children, discussed that a child who plays with simple toys and games learns to
develop creativity, resilience, and the ability to get along with others. This is an important message for those
families who can’t afford iPads, playstations, and other activities/lessons
with high price tags.
According to the report, “Parents of all income levels
should use time together at home to engage in both free and unstructured
play…Playtime is bonding time for families.”
Through play, children learn to take turns, negotiate
conflicts, solve problems, share goals, acquire flexibility, and live with
disappointment. These are the skills that allow them to become successful both
academically and emotionally.
So remember, if you want to raise an intelligent,
well-rounded, emotionally healthy child, there’s no need for high-priced toys
or fancy lessons. Just remember to, “play”.
Chicken Tacos: a no-cook recipe
Often, one of the most stressful times of my day is during
the “dinner rush”. This is when the kids
and I get home from school/work, we’re tired, we’re hungry, and we haven’t seen
each other all day. Although I enjoy
cooking, this time of day is usually the most inconvenient time to do so. I’d rather just spend my time relaxing and playing with my kids.
The following is a recipe for a nutritious, no cook, low
budget meal that you can get on the table in just minutes. Children love to
“make” their own food, so let them assemble their own tacos. This is also a great way to get them to eat
their veggies!
1 Rotisserie chicken- shredded by hand
Cumin
Corn tortillas
Cilantro
Avocado
Tomato
Scallions
Wedges of lime for drizzling
- Heat skillet, drizzle olive oil, toss in chicken with cumin.
- Heat the corn tortillas
- Make a “taco bar”- serve the chicken, tortillas, and other ingredients
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