Power of Pretend
Doll Train
It takes a lot of my energy, to sit back and do nothing.
But the better I get at allowing O to lead the show, the more I see how powerful 'doing nothing' can be.
The basis of unschooling is to follow a childs lead in terms of their interests and intent to learn in their surroundings, but what a concept for a society that has been raised to believe the only place to learn, is an institute.
O loves pretend play and "pretend" is not a small ordeal.
There are props, characters and various degrees of role-playing.
Every day objects are transformed. Toys come to life. Child's play.
"Mama, 'tend Dabby." she requests.
Then I have to (pre)tend to be her father; walking and talking the way he does.
This elicits a great response from her and I continue filling people's shoe's at her request.
"Mama, 'tend Karin's mommy."
I do my best impression of Santa Clause, because this is how Karin's mommy makes O laugh.
Photo Op
When O ran to get her chairs and make a train, I had an instant flashback. My little sister and I used to line up the dining room chairs, when my mother moved them into the living room to wash the floor. We would then spend hours playing train. No fancy toys necessary.
All children naturally play all day (if given the space and freedom.)
And play is work.
Yes. Elmo is nursing!
She incorporates the every day, such as nursing.
The things that are important and crucial to her.
Chatting up the passengers!
She has the opportunity to be whomever she wants.
She is usually everyone's (referring to dolls) mommy.
Photog
She incorporates things she knows from a different angle.
Her Style
Dress-up is another way to express herself!
EXPAND ON PRETEND PLAY
Play Spaces. Play kitchens. Mock Shops. Bank teller. Post person. Mechanic. Simple activities that involve a lot of role-playing and imagination can be created with items easily found at home. Childhood 101 gives the low-down on a friendly playspace. http://childhood101.com/2010/06/space-to-play-and-learn-10-tips-for-creating-great-play-spaces/
Playful Learning has amazing idea's on how to create inviting corners. http://playfullearning.net/learning-experiences/
Don't Cramp Your Toddlers Style. Article by Janet Lansbury, based on philosophy of Magda Gerber. http://www.janetlansbury.com/2011/09/dont-cramp-your-toddlers-style-the-power-of-trust/
“If the infant seems to ignore you and is doing something completely on
his own, don’t leave. It is very comforting for him to know you are
there, really there, without any pressure to have to do something to keep your attention.” –Gerber
“Do less, enjoy more.” -Gerber
“In play, there’s no time.” –Flinsch