2007, Issues 2

Educating, Connecting and Supporting families in Monash

Its Raining, Its Pouring...

Jennifer Sebire, Children Services Coordinator

It's Raining, It's Pouring...
What are you going to do with the children?

Winter is a great time for children. There are so many things to do, both inside and outside. You don't have to put sunscreen on them when they go outside, but wearing gumboots is a good idea.

Remember autumn comes before winter, how exciting is that? Who hasn't put on a coat and boots and headed out to play in the autumn leaves. Remember kicking them high in the air and jumping and rolling in the pile of leaves your next-door neighbour had just raked up. Who could forget the smile on your face?

Leaves are a great 'toy' for children outside but you can also bring them inside. Fill a baby's bath, or clam shell, with leaves and watch your children play. It is messy but not dirty. A vacuum cleaner is a parent's best friend. Alternatively, fill your own bath with leaves and let a couple of children in there to play. When you have finished with the leaves, choose some really nice shaped leaves and paint them or paste with them or use them in the playdough to help make a garden.

Speaking of playdough, think of the original 'playdough' which was good old-fashioned MUD. Remember sitting out in the garden with a spade, a bucket of dirt and some water. Again, the bath is a good place for muddy play if it is too wet outside.

Don't be afraid to go out in the rain with your children – two things might happen – your child may grow like a flower being watered and you may shrink like a woollen jumper in the washing machine.

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Updated: 26 June 2007

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