IN Upper St. Clair Summer 2018 | Page 25

INDUSTRY INSIGHT
PARENTING
SPONSORED CONTENT
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
& PARK PLAY
WITH YOUR CHILDREN
A
day at the park may seem like “just another day,” but
learning and bonding experiences flourish at the park!
Pack for Safety
Drinking water and water to wash, sunscreen, hat, wipes
for hands, sneakers or other closed-toe shoes, a change of clothes or a
towel for the seat, small first-aid kit for those little scrapes, and a small
trash bag to keep the Earth litter-free are all important.
Expect to Get Dirty
Going outside is about the freedom to explore, and the only way to
explore is to touch it; and yes, it is dirty – it’s outside! Dirty does not
mean “germy.” Roll in the grass, stomp in the mud, touch the frog and
splash in the puddles.
INFANT TO 6 MONTHS
• Pack for safety: A blanket to crawl on and a sturdy pair of pants
for crawling on rough surfaces. Be prepared to change diapers
on the go.
• Be prepared to climb and crawl yourself. This is the best way for
READY.
SET.
GOddard!
We help children explore
and discover their interests
through play in a safe
environment. We provide
ample opportunities for
fun learning experiences,
promoting a lifelong love of
learning in literacy, science,
technology, engineering,
arts and mathematics.
NOW ENROLLING ALL AGES,
INCLUDING KINDERGARTEN!
PETERS TOWNSHIP (VENETIA) • 724-941-6464
PITTSBURGH (UPPER SAINT CLAIR) • 412-564-3600
you to ensure your child’s safety. Watch for items going into your
child’s mouth.
• Hydration: The outside air and activity increases the amount of
fluids you both need to consume. And while you’re packing the
water, pack a snack.
• Point, name and describe: As your child explores, point out the
details; name objects and talk about your experience.
FIRST STEPS (12 TO 18 MONTHS)
• Pack for safety: Bring a blanket and a sturdy pair of pants for
crawling on rough surfaces. This is not the place for skirts or
dresses.
• Plan for breaks and pack snacks, water and a few books.
• Dig and touch: Collect items to further explore when you get
home.
• Walk the trail as your little one is on a riding toy. Don’t forget the
helmet.
• Park play etiquette: If your little one finds a playmate, ask the
other parent if both of you may join in the play. Your child will
learn to ask for your appro val before playing with strangers and
the parent of the other child will appreciate this overture.
TODDLER AND ‘GET SET’ (18 TO 36 MONTHS)
• Plot the potty path!
• Bring balls to throw and kick or bean bags and a bucket.
• Move beyond the park and walk a trail or explore a nursery. Go
to the stream, lake or pond and skip rocks. Turn the rocks over to
find creepy, crawly things.
• No breaks required, but pause for a moment to rehydrate.
• Look through binoculars – even two toilet paper tubes offer a
new view of the world.
• Tent it! A pop-up tent is an instant playhouse.
• Take an umbrella and put on your galoshes – take a walk in the
light rain.
PRESCHOOL TO PRE-K (36 MONTHS+)
• Lie down and look up: Children like to see the world from a
different perspective.
• Picnic: Let your child be a part of packing the necessities and
preparing the sandwiches.
• Play “I Spy” or “I Hear.”
• Read or draw under the trees.
• Bring a magnifying cup for bugs and objects to view. Research
your bugs and objects when you return home to learn more
about them.
This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo.
GoddardSchool.com
The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with
Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited.
© Goddard Systems, Inc. 2018
Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®,
located at 825 East McMurray Road in Peters Township
and 655 Painters Run Road, Upper St. Clair, 412.564.3600.
Goddard offers both full- and part-time infant/preschool/
kindergarten programs. For more information, visit
www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464.
UPPER ST. CLAIR
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SUMMER 2018
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