Playtime Better Than Tube Time for Youngsters
Research shows that free play helps young children in all areas.
In a new policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that unstructured play best nurtures brain development in infants and toddlers. The AAP discourages TV and even educational videos for this age group.
Even though parents can find a number of “educational” TV and video programs aimed at infants and toddlers, the AAP says no evidence backs up the claim that such programs help children learn better. Moreover, the AAP says, youngsters who have extensive exposure to TV and video are at risk for language development delays when they start school.
Far better than TV or other media, free play helps young children think creatively, solve problems, and develop reasoning and motor skills, the AAP says. Kids who are encouraged to play learn how to entertain themselves. Read more>




































