A few weeks ago, I joined several new parents in our Play Dates classroom. Together, they shared uncertainties about feeding struggles and sleeping routines, wondering if they were doing everything “right” (I assure you, they were).
I thought about the vulnerabilities parents experience as they navigate this world with young children. In that environment on that day, children were empowered and happy, and parents were connecting.
It affirmed for me that an environment set for safe, playful exploration is the most important thing we can do for children and families at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota and beyond.
Today, I am reminded that sometimes the world does not feel safe for children and families. And when scary things are happening, it can be hard for us to navigate our feelings and support the young people we love so dearly.
Parents and caregivers, please give yourself grace in these moments of uncertainty.
When life feels heavy, remember that play gives us permission to pause.
Play helps children (and adults!) relax, connect, and find joy in the moment. Through play, we can work through emotions, reduce stress, build resilience, and remind ourselves that even when the world feels uncertain, moments of light still exist.
Sometimes we need a community to help us remember that. If you are looking for ways to show up for the children in your life in the midst of the heaviness, we’ve got some resources on our Seize the Play blog. And if you are looking for a place to play, we’ve got that, too.
With play (and a deep breath),
Kate Treiber, Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of South Dakota
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