My Connections to Play

I tried to teach my child with books,

He gave me only puzzled looks.

I tried to teach my child with words,

They passed him by often unheard.

Despairingly I turned aside,

How shall I teach this child, I cried.

Into my hands he put the key,

“Come”, he said, “play with me!”

-Author Unknown

These are a few of the toys that I played with while growing up in the 70's and 80's.  Although I had plenty of toys growing up, my brothers, my friends and I spent the majority of our time outside- riding bikes, jumping in mud puddles, swimming, running through fields, sled riding and building forts.  We would stay outside in the summer and winter and would only come inside once it became dark.  I can remember my neighbor and I using our imagination to turn her families' shed into a school.  Not surprisely, we are now both educators. Growing up in a rural area and living on farms, we had a large area that we could explore.  I can remember spending hours playing as a young child and I look back now and realize that it was one of the best times of my life.   I think that in today's  world many children have so many toys and electronics that they aren't using their imaginations in play.   They also spend much of their time in play that is not active.  As I am raising my own children, I want them to spend plenty of time outside playing and have opportunities to use their imaginations.  I know as an adult I still like to play and I enjoy spending time playing with my kids. I think play for young children is an important part of growing up and learning.  I think adults can benefit from play too.  I think it helps with productivity and creativity.  

“If you want creative workers, give them enough time to play”
― John Cleese

Play Today?

You say you love your children,

And are concerned they learn today?

So are we- that's why we're providing

A variety of kinds of play.

You're asking us the value

Of blocks and other such toys?

Your children are solving problems.

They will use that skill everyday.

You're asking us what's the value

of having your children play?

Your daughter's creating a tower;

she may be a builder someday.

You're questioning the interest centers;

They just look like useless play?

Your children are making choices;

They will be on their own someday.

You're worried your children aren't learning;

An later they'll have to pay?

They're learning a pattern for learning;

For they will be learners always!

by Leila P. Fagg