My Connections to Play

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” Kay Redfield Jamison (professor of psychiatry)

 

Tarry a moment to watch the chaos of a playground, crayola-colored shirts of running children, all trying out their wings. ~Dr. SunWolf, professorsunwolf.com

 

Three essential play items:

 

 

Ball

 

 

 Doll

 

 

 

 

                         

 Dress-up accessories

 

The people in my life supported play when I was younger but letting me play all the time.  They were an active part of my play time as well and allowed me to explore new things on my own and develop a love of certain things in my life.  My grandma was a big part of my support system in play, whenever I was with her she was always playing with me.  Sometimes this play included singing to me and laughing with me.

 

I think play today is seen as more meaningful and essential in children’s life then it was when I was younger. I also think there are way more learning based play items than before.  I feel children have a stronger grasp of meaningful play in the classroom.  I especially see this when using the Ipad.  You would think a piece of technology like this would be only used for senseless play but there are so many education apps that students love to play.  I hope that young children now see the importance of play but also play in a way to build upon something.  I would hope the children are engaged throughout play time as well.

 

I think play was very important in my life and allowed be to explore what I thought was important at the time and acquire a love of things in my life today.  Without the chance to play, I would not be who I am today.  If one is not allowed to play they because part of the “norm” and are seen just as someone else may be seen.  Playing allows the chance to become your own person and develop your own beliefs and love of life.