Book Of Creative Play Ideas Provides Respite For Parents
“I’m bored. There’s nothing to do!” If this becomes a familiar phrase by mid-July when the “school’s out euphoria” has dimmed and the summer days are dragging, it is time to introduce a new book of playtime ideas called “365 Days of Creative Play” ($12.95, Sourcebooks).
Authors Sheila Ellison and Judith Gray provide activities for sunny or rainy days, covering topics such as the environment, family and make-believe, requiring at most a handful of materials.
Recommended for ages 2 and up, the book ranges from simple activities for toddlers and preschoolers (nature walks, homemade clay, edible jewelry) to unique projects that children, aged 6 and older, can do without supervision (pavement water painting, magazine collages, sunflower surprises).
Summer days will pass quickly using “365 Days of Creative Play.” The only challenge for parents will be what to do with all that artwork. Remember though, the fun is in the doing.
The book is available at major bookstores or from the publisher at (800) 727-8866.
CPR classes for kids
Kids can save lives, an important reason to teach them basic CPR skills and how to help a choking victim.
The Women’s Health Center at Holy Family Hospital is offering “CPR and Safety for Kids” for ages 11 and up, which can also fulfill partial requirements for Scout and Campfire badges.
Classes will be June 27 (noon-2 p.m.), July 12 (5:30-7:30 p.m.) and July 19 (5:30-7:30 p.m.) at the Health Education Center. Tuition is $5 per child and class sizes are limited, so call early to register at (509) 482-2477.
Rules of thumb
If you are concerned about your child’s thumb-sucking, the Washington State Dental Association is making available a brochure titled “Thumb-sucking: Rules of Thumb for Parents.”
The brochure gives information on the sucking reflex, pacifiers, problems that can arise from prolonged thumb-sucking and helpful tips in dealing with thumb-sucking.
For a complimentary copy, contact the WSDA at (206) 448-1914.
Summer science
The Pacific Science Center will offer “Science Celebration” classes for children 4 to 12 years old at Discovery School in Spokane, June 26-29.
Children will learn through hands-on activities a new theme each day: “Building Bridges,” “Mathemagic,” “Birds of Prey” and “Tropical Rainforests.”
Classes are 9:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Tuition per workshop is $14.50 for members; $16 for non-members. Registration forms are available at all city and county libraries, or call the Pacific Science Center at (206) 443-2925.
A preschool perspective
A new concept in videos using preschoolers to teach preschoolers has made Preschool Power! home videos extremely popular.
Each half-hour Preschool Power! video focuses on building confidence, self-esteem and independence in young children by featuring preschoolers demonstrating practical skills, fixing healthy snacks, performing science tricks or making unique crafts all by themselves.
Parents will appreciate the educational and interactive aspects of the eight-volume series, each priced at $14.95. To order, call Concept Videos at (800) 333-8252.
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