Discussion 1

The Importance of Play

Children learn as they play and, while playing, they learn how to learn. Take a moment to read the article "The Importance of Play - Activities for Children." Then, think about the childhood games that you played. Share your favorite playtime activity with your classmates and explain why it was your favorite. Describe what you learned from your play and how it enhanced your development as a child. Using your own experience with play and the information in the reading, also describe five takeaways from each article that you will use to support play and enhance the development of children under your supervision.

Discussion 2

Life

Life as we know it will change for the next generation, and those changes must be accounted for in child development. Today, television and media, the changing nuclear family, and new parenting styles play a large part in the life of a child. Research tells us that viewing violent television programs or playing violence-themed games contributes to increased aggressiveness in children. We also know that the break-up of the nuclear family and "super-parenting" can have detrimental effects on a child's emotional and social development. It may sound difficult, but as a caregiver, you will need to find the positive influences that can enhance development and learning in all situations. Explain what you can do to help prevent the negative influences of media, parenting, and the nuclear family, and ensure their positive influence on child growth and development. Share your own beliefs about these three areas, and how you will avoid any personal bias in your approach.