Dear Moms, Dads, Relatives, Educators and Business Owners

Did you know that, "Play could be the most important work we can ever do?"

According to the founder of The National Institute for PLAY, Dr Stuart Brown, "Play is vital, no matter your age. It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination and Invigorates the Soul."

If you ask my children what their favourite game is, they will shout "The Tickle Monster" in unison. Second favourite is any game played on the trampoline. There can't be many parents or children who don't feel the warm fuzzies after a rough and tumble "Tickle Monster" game. For a game that can be played anywhere, and last for any period of time, the stress relief and family bonding benefits are invaluable.

According to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), "despite the benefits derived from play for both children and parents, time for free play has been markedly reduced for some children." They list the factors that have reduced playtime to be, "a hurried lifestyle, changes in family structure, and increased attention to academics and enrichment activities at the expense of recess or free child-centered play." Read the full report here: AAP - The Importance of Play

It is not just "The Tickle Monster" game that is vital to families, but varied types of games and play. You can learn more about these and the importance of play in the videos, links and articles below. I also recommend you watch this entertaining and informative talk by Dr Stuart Brown entitled: Why play is vital -- no matter your age. The video is a half hour long, so ensure you have the time and bandwidth for it.

Below, in this newsletter issue, you will also find interesting new products and services, news, new competitions and specials.

A reminder to all Durban families (or those visiting Durban), the annual SABC Education Baba Indaba event is being held this weekend from 19 to 22 March 2010 at the Durban Exhibition Centre and includes the launch of the Kids Indaba, a brand new concept catering for 6 – 12 year old children. Next month Barney will be at uShaka Marine World. Yes, things DO happen in Durban - occasionally!

Enjoy the long weekend endulging in some stress relief therapy playing Tickle Monster!

www.kidzworld.co.za