The Importance of Show and Tell

It’s that time again! Your child comes home from school and announces, “Tomorrow is show and tell, and I need to find something to bring in to show everyone!” Parents – your initial thought being, “Oh no, just another thing I have to remember not to forget in the morning…” But, show and tell isn’t just giving kids a reason to bring their favorite toy to class, its so much more.

           

            Show and tell is extremely beneficial to a child’s social, emotional and overall language development. This activity allows children to strengthen their vocabulary by learning to use descriptive language in order to share their special items with their peers. Not only that, but show and tell is a time for kids to further develop their listening skills as their classmates take turns speaking aloud to the group.

            The most obvious benefit to show and tell is of course, oral speaking skills. While this is extremely important, let’s think more about the social aspect and how this simple and effortless activity increases a child’s self-esteem and pride in so many ways! Show and tell gives a child a chance to be the center of attention for 3 whole minutes. What child wouldn’t love this at this age? Also, show and tell is a great opportunity for kids to make friends. Some children may bring in similar a toy, which opens the door of opportunity for children to talk about a similar interest. Who knows, this may even lead to an out of school play-date.

Whenever we have show and tell at the daycare I work at, trust me when I say the kids LOVE IT. They get so excited in their own thoughts and can barely get their words out quick enough. They look forward to this special activity, which is why I believe it should be incorporated in almost every classroom.

Coming together as a group to share special items or even prized possessions with classmates makes an extremely fun and open learning environment. Show and tell is a great activity to engage the entire class and give each child that much needed “moment of fame.”