Play Dates are easy: we play! Many parents under estimate
the importance of play in their children’s lives, especially the idea of
playing with their child. Play just isn’t entertainment, it’s how your child
learns!
A baby building with blocks and knocking them over isn’t just amusing
himself. He’s actually learning cause and effect; that when he pushes a block
over, the effect is a jumble of blocks on the floor! A toddler pretending that
a toy is a phone is learning that one object can metaphorically stand in for
another one. And you, as a parent or caregiver, get to guide them during this
journey of play!
At our Play Dates, we also play host to different parenting
professionals in our community. They’re here to chat, answer any questions, and
explain what resources they have to offer you. In the past, we’ve had visits
from Nurse Family Partnership, the Autism Society of Berks County, BCIU, and
other helpful community agencies that are at your service. For instance, if you
have concerns about your child’s social development, one of our parenting experts
can give you advice or tell you what services can help you. Or, if you’re
wondering how to introduce books to a child that never seems to want to settle
down, the librarian can show you how it’s done!
The best part of our Play Dates is that you get to meet
other families with children the same ages as your own. It’s a great time to
let your children socialize with other kids, especially if you’re preparing
them for daycare or pre-school. Plus, it’s a great time for YOU to socialize
with other parents who can also give you advice on what they’re experiencing.
Our Play Dates program is part of the National Family Place
program. Libraries across the nation offer these types of workshops to
introduce literacy, play, and socialization to families in their
communities.
