Play for me as a child was safe and free exploration whether in or outdoors. During many of my outdoor endeavors, I spent countless hours doing two of my favorite things at the same time, climbing a tree and reading a book. My Grandmother encouraged me throughout my childhood to go outside and play with the neighborhood children or by myself instead of just watching television. There were times she would join me with duties of gardening, other lawn maintenance, and enlightening conversation about nature and life. To come to think of it, I don't recall any of the neighborhood children having issues with energy or weight problems. The philosophy of children playing outdoors as much as possible was shared with the neighborhood family. During that time, we played school (the oldest person was always the teacher), talk show, restaurant, the list goes on and on. We had a lunch break and then right back at it....PLAY TIME.
Today with the advancements of technology and electronic devices, it seems that play has taken on another meaning for some people. It has become the primary entertainment and communication of family members. With today's busy lives and parents working, real outdoor play has been replaced in some cases with simulated outdoor play on a computer screen. Socialization has gone from face to face conversations that expand ones vocabulary, to abbreviated text messages. I truly believe that it was through those peer conversations that I developed the confidence to respectfully share my thoughts (speak my mind) with others. They may have even caused me want to take on leadership roles such as the one I have today.
Even when schools have to make cuts to the budget, music and physical education are the first items to go. This leaves children in the classrooms to their academics with little to no socialization with peers. I recall pre and elementary school as fun filled days with more than 3 recesses. Oh how I couldn't wait to go outside and talk to my friends, sharing ideas and experiences (boy, we thought we had everything figured out at 6 years old).
The following quotes reflect how I feel about the importance of PLAY!!!!
We don't stop playing because we grow old, We grow old because we stop playing. "Satchel Paige"
The playing adult steps sidewards into another reality; the playing child advances forward to new stages of mastery.
"Erik Erikson"
Dantaya,
ReplyDeleteIt seems we are on the same page as our quotes are similar and our experiences are similar. Those were the good old days. But, guess what, my grandma said that same thing to me about her childhood. It makes we wonder if this is just another way and our way was just that: another way. People before us complained about my generation and the different things we did. I guess we will never know but I sure do love my memories which seem very similar to yours.
Catherine
Dantaya,
ReplyDeleteOften times, adult do not play nor do they value play. Children of today do not truly understand nor know what paly is. Children do not spend much time outside enjoying the cool breeze, green grass, falling leaves, riding bikes or playing with sticks or rocks. I went out side with my son, nephew and niece and made snow angels. I chase them all around and we tossed snowballs at each other. We had so much fun outside. I would like to give them a balance with play as much as I can. They enjoy electronic and tv which is fine becaue that represents their generation. However, I want them to know the fun of using their creative minds and enjoying the wilderness and cool breeze.
Hi Dantaya,
ReplyDeleteWasn't childhood wonderful. We were able to go outside or stay indoors. Now it seems all children stay in doors and no one has an imagination. Everything is electronic. I bought a basket ball rim and bikes for my boys to encourage outside exploration. So far, it's working. Thanks for sharing.