Two focuses of my blog are Creating Ecosystems of Success and Health/Wellness. If you have children, one key consideration is their proper development. There are some things to consider in the fall months. The following contributed post is entitled, 4 Healthy Ways To Boost Your Child’s Development This Fall.
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The cool weather is no reason to slow down, as Fall remains a busy season for most families. With only a few months left to Winter, most families will want to get their holiday plans and preparations underway. It’s also a wonderful time to stop, connect with your kids, and have fun together as a family. Whether it’s planning outings or engaging in home-based activities, it’s the simple things that create strong bonds and boost a child’s development. The season is filled with opportunities for kids to learn and grow in a fun way. Here are some ways to boost your child’s development this Fall.
1. Head outdoors every day
During this season, the summer heat gives way to cooler and crisp weather, the leaves change colors, and there’s much to see, feel, and smell outside. So take your kids out as often as you can – every day, if possible. Engaging in various outdoor activities this Fall can improve your child’s motor skills. Choose activities like running, raking, collecting leaves, climbing, hopping, catching, and hide-and-seek. These activities involve gross motor skills, which are important for coordination, good posture, balance, and overall physical development.
2. Plan more family activities
Backyard BBQs, get-togethers, family dinners, parties, and family time are also excellent ways to boost your child’s development this Fall. These social activities can help improve your child’s social skills, understand, relate with others, and develop relationships. You can help improve by teaching them appropriate words and actions during social gatherings. Also, consider taking them to kid-friendly social events or encouraging them to play with other kids outside the home. Remember to address issues that could discourage your child from engaging in social activities. For example, consider the possibility of hearing aids if your little one has been diagnosed with hearing loss. You can also learn effective tips to address social awkwardness in your child.
3. Give them simple ‘day jobs’
Understandably, you’re busy with plans and preparations for the upcoming holiday season, but your kids can help in simple ways. So, consider giving them simple day jobs so they don’t feel left out or abandoned. For example, you can ask your little one to wipe the dinner table, fold laundry, sweep the floor, or put littered toys away as their job. Such simple responsibilities will make your child feel important and teach them much about being responsible. Some kids can even start preparing snacks or helping with minor kitchen duties. It helps if you give them a little tip, allowance, or reward for completing their tasks, which will encourage them even further.
4. Create Fall art projects
Sometimes, temperatures may drop too low to head outside. But you can encourage creativity indoors by encouraging your kids to create Fall-themed arts and crafts. They can draw various Fall sceneries or objects, make collages, create Fall leaves chalk art, pumpkin picture frames, and other fun but educational activities. Art and craft allow your child to tap into their imagination and creativity. It also helps to improve their motor skills. Plus, it’s a fun way to spend time together with your little ones.
