Nunu absolutely loves water play, whether it's messing around in the bath at night or splashing around in his little yellow inflatable pool on the weekends. Why is everyone making such a big deal about water play? And when should you start?
Benefits of water play
1) Mathematical concepts are learnt
The best way to learn is through exploration. By playing with water, your baby will discover the concept of capacity and volume (basic measuring skills).
2) Development of motor skills
I have spoken in a previous post about motor skills- basically there are two main skills: fine (the finicky muscles needed for things like writing, threading, etc.) and gross (the bigger muscles such as catching or kicking a ball). Motor skills are all encouraged during water play. By pouring, squeezing and squirting, a wide range skills will be used. You also want to encourage dexterity in their little fingers for their pencil grip later on in life.
3) Using their imagination
Water play encourages creative play. The make believe world that they create during water play, stimulates their imagination and problem solving skills.
4) Emotional development
Water play is extremely relaxing and a great way for your baby to unwind.
When should you start?
It's never too early! I started Nunu at 3 months old, with a bowl of water and one little dolphin floating around that he could watch (helps with eye tracking).
I try to buy different toys and rotate them every so often so that he gets a variety of stimulation and skill development, rather than playing with the same ones all the time. The important thing is that they are having fun!
Important: ALWAYS supervise your little ones during water play.