Every Day a Photo Op

You know, every day provides photo opportunities. Today was no exception.

#1. Nellie reminded me of the value to children's imagination that free play time provides. She came running out of the play room, excited to the gills, "Look, Paully! Look what I can do!" She laid four little cardboard"Noddy" books on the floor then proceeded to lay one hand and one foot on each, sort of like an upside down Twister position. I clapped and asked if she could do that again as I reached for the camera.

You would be disappointed if you expected to see the alphabet letters taped to the wall for children to learn or art work that required a lot of prep time on my part, instead of original paintings and collages done by the children that reflected their individuality. The important thing for very young children is PLAY. That is their work. If I had the children engaged in activities all day that were directed my myself I would miss out on precious moments like this.

You can do a google search for "The importance of play for young children" so this is all I'm going to say on the subject. Just know that I am a strong advocate for letting children be children while they're children. We all need play in our lives. We all need children in our lives, ha. Every day I think how lucky I am. Many women my age are bored and lonely...I have these delightful beings grace my life five days a week. The best entertainment the world can offer comes right to my door every day and I love every minute of it.

#2. Cody woke first from her nap. She didn't come out of the nap room right away so when I went in to get her this is what I saw. She had thrown all the stuffed animals, even her beloved Teddy, on top of Nellie. Probably in hopes of waking her, but short of a bomb blast that won't happen until she's good and ready to wake up.

#3. The girls played with magnets after we came in from outside, while I fixed lunch. I was surprised at how long this held their interest. See the tray? These come in so handy for bead work or any of the small manipulative toys they love. The trays keep the materials from rolling off the table (my kitchen seems to slant) as well as giving each child a defined space for her own work. The table is sturdy and low for the children. Adult guests never complain about sitting there in the little blue chairs. I'm so used to it after all these years.