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Come to Your Senses
Monday, October 18, 2010 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Fall. I admit it. I'm having *a bit* of trouble warming up to the change of seasons.
I've loved, loved summer. Warm. Sunshine. Did I mention warm?
For those of you who've been reading this blog for some time (thanks!
), you know I'm in the midwest. After fall comes the very gray days of winter, 3-4 months of gray to be more specific.
But, back to the topic at hand. It's fall and the weather has been grand! There's still warmth and sunshine.
Have you been out and about with your kiddo? It's the perfect time to explore nature and all the benefits it brings!
Specifically, there's the sights, sounds, and smells of the season.
From the earliest days with your baby, you've probably noticed how much they take in through their senses.
Did you know that a newborn knows the smell of their mother? It's true! Research has shown that even a newborn will recognize their mother's scent over that of another person. This is especially true if a new mama is breastfeeding.
Then, there's the fingers of your baby. First, they're the fist to the mouth, and eventually (by toddlerhood definitely!) they've found some other "not so cute" places to explore (i.e. their nose
). They see, touch, and sometimes taste anything and everything.
Sounds? Infants will turn their heads in the direction of familiar voices.
And sight? It develops over time, but it is definitely a primary way young children acquire new information.
Getting into the great outdoors this season is the perfect opportunity to support your child's sensory explorations.
*Crisp fall leaves are perfect for crunching, scrunching, and smelling. Want to engage your (older) toddler for a few minutes? Provide a pair of child-safe scissors and a bowl of crisp fall leaves. Not afraid of a mess? Add some glue and paper.
*Leaf piles not only make for great pictures, but provide grand discoveries for even the youngest infants.
*A short walk/wobble/stroll provides the perfect outing to look at other fall finds: acorns, pinecones, sticks, etc. Of course, always keep safety in mind (re: anything that can fit inside a toilet paper tube is a potential chokable if a child decides to *taste* the object).
When I'm out and about having fall fun, it does make me realize that the change of seasons isn't *so* bad. Seeing my child grow and learn as a result of what each season brings, only makes each one more beautiful.
What are you exploring these days?
