Stimulating and Socializing – am I doing enough?

Yes, absolutely – it is part and parcel of parenting to worry, but it is better to channel your worry into action; simply talking to your child as you go about everyday activities in the home is a rich source of stimulation.

It is the persistent worry that a parent can experience, often related to the feeling that they are not doing enough to stimulate their young child.

At the beginning of each week, together with your child’s carer, sit down and plan activities that can be undertaken and make suggestions for general stimulation through activities of daily living.

I suggest that you continue to expose her to others as we know the value of socialization; being out in the fresh air will also do her more good than harm!

Definitely not – extra lessons are just that – an “extra” and certainly not a required means to stimulate your child; remember that stimulation comes in many forms and many games and activities that children partake in naturally, such as ball games, typically incorporate aspects of math, literacy, and physical coordination.

Stimulate and socialize your child – both aspects can be achieved with little expense and simply by being mindful and purposeful in your interactions and actions.

Expose them to books, read to them, take them outside, talk to them, play with them, dance, sing and have fun.

Play dates, family social gatherings, group sporting activities, group arts and crafts – these are but a few ways in which to create opportunities for socializing.