Kalyna Family Resource NetworkVegreville and Area 5106-48Ave 780-632-2912
Inside this issue: Registered Family Resource 2-4 Network Caregivers Programs Community Partnered Programs
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Community Programs
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Calendar
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ASQ Information
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Triple P
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Directory
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Important Dates: Closed: April 15-18– Easter
Warmer temperatures and melting snow are great ways to know that spring is almost here and winter will soon be another passing season. However, with the snow melting it creates an opportunity that most children struggle to resist… jumping in puddles or playing with mud! As caregivers, it is often the first reaction to tell your child not to play in the puddles/mud because they will get dirty or wet. While sometimes this warning is necessary there are significant benefits to letting your child play in puddles or mud. The keyword in the sentence above is play. When children play they are doing more than having fun, laughing, or creating memories; they are also building onto their development. When a child plays they are developing skills. Physically when your child plays by running through or jumping into the puddle they are developing their gross motor skills. Taking turns, sharing supplies and exploring in the mud puddle with others will increase problem solving, social and emotional developmental skills. So the next time there is an opportunity to let your child play in the puddles or mud let them because they are doing more than playing, they are learning, growing and developing. Here are some fun activities to do: Make Mud Pies: This is a great simple way to reuse old plastic containers. Let your child fill the container with mud and other nature items (such as rocks, sticks, grass, old leaves, etc.) and let them explore the textures. Caregivers join in the puddle jumping with your children! Children learn by seeing and watching you have fun in the puddles shows them that it is okay and fun to try!
Make Mud Pies in the kitchen. Let children create their own mud pies by layering favourite fruits on the bottom of a dish and slopping ’mud’ (chocolate pudding) on top. Your kids will love making their own snacks! You will need: Small bowls or mini pie plates, spoons and napkins Chocolate pudding Fruit cut into bite-size pieces (examples: berries, apples, bananas, etc.)