If you’re a parent you probably already know the benefits of free-play with kids; it encourages physical fitness, instills creativity and jump starts the imagination. I believe IKEA understands the importance of play in a child’s life; this is obvious not only from the design of their children’s furniture but also the children’s section in their own stores. The furniture is fun, colourful and caters to a child’s imagination. This is probably why most our our playrooom consists of IKEA items, from storage, stools, pillows, lighting and more.
IKEA recently commissioned the Playreport, the largest global study ever on child development and how children play. They’ve even created a Facebook page where you, along with other experts and parents, can find out more about the Playreport as well as participate in discussions around child development and the importance of play.
Another great play tool is LEKAR, a free app for your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. Currently there are 3 games as part of the app:
Bird Fish or In Between - the parent chooses where they will hide their iPhone, high up like a bird, down low like a fish or somewhere in between. Once hidden they press the start button and then the kids have to look for it. Every 10 seconds or so the iPhone makes lets out a sound, a bird chirp if the phone is hidden up high. 
When the kids find it they press stop and all the animals celebrate the find at the end. I thought this was a great use for the phone and the distinct sounds helped the kids to focus where they were looking and if they were getting close. I would recommend playing with the volume turned up on your iPhone for this to make sure the sound is heard.
Charades - The person doing the charade is given a picture they have to act out. The iPhone is handed to the rest of the group and they have to guess by selecting from a pre-set number of images. If they get it, all the animals celebrate in the end. The images are easy for even young kids to act out and there’s no time wasted trying to think of charade ideas; just start playing.
Musical Chairs - From the first screen you choose how many people will play (from the graphic photos of heads). When the chairs are set and kids ready, just hit start and music will play. In the end, like the other games, all the animals celebrate the final win. I must admit this wasn’t one of my favourites but it is a great tool to start up a game when you’re out and about at the park (using a park bench) or at someone else’s home.
Each game includes instructions on how to play, though I think you’ll find they’re pretty straight forward, and you can easily toggle between any of the games from the simple menu screen accessed in the top corner at all times. I love that each game comes from a different country and they explain that. I believe there are plans to add new games and activities and I’m excited to see what they are.
The LEKAR app is just another extension of IKEA’s understanding of kids and play. By downloading this app on your iPhone, hopefully you’ll be able to squeeze a quick game in with your kids too.
CONTEST: IKEA wants to get encourage play in your home. Checkout this awesome contest they are offering EverythingMom members (ends August 11, 2010).
