30 days to hand on play challenge - Day 8

In an effort to find ways to play, and thus connect with Ethan, I was very please to find this challenge at the Hands On as we Grow site. I'm joining a little late (day 8) but am excited nonetheless.

Today is water play day!

Needed:
A few bowls with water and water colour added (red, blue, yellow)
Some kitchen utensils like spoons, cups etc

Today we were playing inside as it was rainy. If thats the case, no problem, just keep some towels nearby for excess water. Dont freak out about the little splashes - its bound to happen!

The challenge for moms today is to spend AT LEAST 15 minutes of engaged playtime with your child. No phones, TV or distractions. Do it!

This was a great playful learning experience as I could show ethan about colours and colour mixing.

Have fun, and let me know how it goes with your playtime!

Playing at home

I just had to share, I found my favorite new blog Play at Home Mom . It has tons of ideas for fun and stimulating games to play with your little ones.

Yesterday I made moonsand with Ethan. I almost had just as much fun as he did! Pity I didn't take any photos. But it's highly reccomended entertainment.

The recipe is as follows:
6 Cups playsand
3 Cups Maizena (Cornstarch)
1 1/5 Cups water (or more if you want to change the texture for different fun)
Food colouring if desired

The reason why I mentioned putting more water is that the sand was already wet and the texture didnt come out as it should have but it was a blast non the less! The sand eventually dried out to the correct texture.

I'm sure you can also store the sand for later and just add some water to it to restore it back to a useable texture.

I know that I need to focus on playing more with Ethan as its so easy to get caught up in housework and being 'productive'. Especially now that Ethan is getting older and starting to play a lot more by himself and with our puppy. But I realised that now that he is able to entertain himself more now, that we dont get as much one-on-one time as when he needed me to structure his play.

Its amazing though, the dramatic change I see in his behaviour after I have some good old fun and laughs with him - real connected play. Its as if I am filling up his 'love tank'. He becomes more compliant and generally contented (which is a tricky one to get right with a 2 year old). But having said that, a tickle chase game is usually the best quick fix to fill up that love tank and restore connection. I need to try and fit one of those in every day.

Have some fun and laughs with your little one today!