Supported...

As a graduate of the U.S and U.K, it was the norm to see support groups for almost ANYTHING you could think of.  Moving back to Kuwait, and working with kids and families I was very disappointed to see issues of privacy and social restraint hindering the development of such groups.

Through my work now, I see more and more parents who are asking for such resources.  Even though we are still at the beginning, I am glad to post about one such group, established by mothers who felt the need for more education and awareness about parenting and child-rearing.  The group is called "Little Moms" and you can find them on Facebook (link) or through their blog.  Support groups are a wonderful way to share and learn, and I personally applaud all their efforts.  

Check out their Facebook page for information on free educational events and lectures, and look for my name soon!  I will hopefully be presenting a lecture for Little Moms in the near future:)

Educational toys

Every opportunity is a learning opportunity... Use this Eid holiday to practice spelling, shapes or numbers in a playful manner.  Try writing on sand in the shaleah, or in water while bathing or swimming, and talk about colors by naming cars passing by while you're driving.  Use fingers, toes, sticks to make the most of your children's muscle memory.  You can also enhance their creativity by using dry pasta, nuts, and any materials you have in your house.  You end up playing and teaching without having to deal with the "homework nightmare".

For educational toys and games, one of my favorite places to go to in Kuwait is Early learning Center (ELC).  I have often used their items in my therapy sessions at Soor Center.

There are four different locations in Kuwait:

Avenues- Kuwait - ELC Al Rai Area Avenues - Debenhams, ELC State of Kuwait

Opp Al Fanar Mall Opp Al Fanar Mall Al Salmiya, Kuwait Tel: 00 965 571 2559 00 965 571 2566 Fax: 00 965 571 2545

Rawda Co-Op Al Rawda Co-Op Rawda, Kuwait Tel: 00965 2560458 00965 2560459

The AVENUES- Kuwait Al Rai Area State of Kuwait Tel: 00965 4954646 Fax: 00965 4954643

PLAY

Nothing's more special and enjoyable than hearing the sound of laughter... Unleash your inner child and find intuitive and innovative ways to play.  Research has often supported the vital role of play in children's cognitive, emotional, social, physical and linguistic development.

Play can be: 

Physical through sports or games like "catchers"

Educational through the use of puzzles, books and educational games

Creative through the use of acting, art or music
Nurturing though tickles and massages

Most importantly, play is expressive.  It unleashes your child's inner thoughts and feelings and is a fun loving way to interact with your child.

Good night... playful dreams...