My Connections to Play

Quotes about play:

“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” Plato

“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning…They have to play with what they know to be true in order to find out more, and then they can use what they learn in new forms of play.” Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood)

My essential play items: bucket, shovel, swimming tube

I choose toys that belong on the sandy beach because this place was where my most memorable moments as a child were.  We used to drive down to Galveston, TX every Summer and spends a few days on the beach.  I remember how I never wanted to leave!  I kept myself occupied all day swimming, collecting sea shells and attempting to build a sand castle. 

Bucket, Shovel                                                                     Swimming Tube

                            

My childhood play:

            When I was younger, play was encouraged everyday.  I did not have homework until about fifth grade, so all my afternoons were spent playing outside.  I rarely watched television and we did not have a gaming system.  My parents encouraged me to play in the backyard, and my dad even built me a playhouse.  I spent a lot of time playing in my room as well and I always came up with new things to do.  I loved to build a tent out of my bed, play school, and have tea parties with my stuffed animals. 

Play today:

Today there doesn’t seem like much time for play.  Children as young as Pre-k are coming home with homework daily, and children are being rushed around from soccer practice to karate.  When they finally do get home, they want to watch television or play video games.  Play is virtually nonexistent until the weekend today.  Children may actually get to go to the park  or see their best friend when Saturday comes.  When I was a child, I got to spend every afternoon outside and play.  Sadly, we have drifted a long way from when I was little. 

The role of play in my life:

Playtime was essential in my life growing up.  I was afforded the opportunity to play everyday.  When I reached middle school, I lost interest in play.  I just wanted to go swimming or go to the movies with my girlfriends.  Now that I have reached adulthood, play is non-existent.  I think play turns into something else when you become an adult and that is staying active mentally and physically.  I do both.  I make time to challenge myself with school, and I make time to workout.  That is my playtime.  The role of play is pertinent in early childhood though.  Play allows children to express themselves and apply what they have learned.  Play gives them the chance to build friendships and learn to cooperate amongst each other.  As early childhood professionals, we need to make time for our students to just be themselves and play.