Getting the Family Involved

Sometimes people assume that I'm the only person who works with my kids on these academic based activities.  That is simply untrue.  I firmly believe that anyone who spends a significant amount of time with my children should be given the opportunity to engage with them in fun learning experiences.  It takes a village, after all.

Clif and Colt building a model airplane together while Cody observes as he eats his breakfast.

Think back to your education.  You were exposed to an array of teachers and influences.  Remember the benefits to this variety.  You learned different perspectives; you were asked diverse questions; you were privy to authentic experiences.  It's important to encourage this same variety in your child's life during the toddler years. 

My dad teaching Colt how to season a steak.  

Toddlers are sponges that absorb their surroundings.  They are fully engaged in the moment.  They observe differences and similarities.  They notice colors, shapes, and sizes.  They are inherently curious.  As caregivers, it's our job to foster these qualities--even when we are not with our children.  Encouraging those who spend time with our children to get involved in their learning, promotes unique opportunities for our toddlers that are similar to the ones we enjoyed when we were in school.

My mother-in-law teaching Colt about the 4th of July.

When your child is spending the afternoon with a grandparent, uncle, aunt, cousin, or with the babysitter, wouldn't it be nice to be able to provide them with an activity to that offers them the chance to bond over an academic exercise promoting conversation and exposing your child to a his or her caregiver's unique way of thinking? 

Don't be scared!  That's just my mom teaching Colt about pumpkin guts

Cody was a spectator that day, too.

Camp Campbell puts the activities and materials on your doorstep.  The next time your child is with a family member or a babysitter, you can easily leave them a lesson sheet and the supplies needed.  Let them bond with your child over the activity.  Let them share stories and personal experiences while working on gross motor skills or language arts.  Let them introduce new words into your child's vocabulary.  Sometimes a different experience is all your toddler needs to cement new knowledge into their memory. 

Email me if you are interested in getting Camp Campbell activities delivered to your home campcampbellalece@gmail.com.  Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates and free activities.