Some quotes that help express what play meant to me as a child are:
“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct.” – Carl Jung
“Play is the work of the child.” – Maria Montessori
“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn.” – O. Fred Donaldson
“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” – Mr. Rogers
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As a child, play had an integral role in my development. I have learnt how to be creative, imaginative and understand and relate well to my young students because of my play experiences.
During my early and middle childhood years my family lived close by the sea, so my parents took my siblings and I regularly to the beach. The bucket and spade represent my memories of my dad and I building digging and playing in the sand and counting the amount of spade full of sand it took to fill my bucket. My siblings and I would each try to out do each other in gathering shells and smooth rocks, some of which I took for my science corner at school.
Well, I was quite obsessed with barbie for most of my childhood. I thought that she was the most beautiful doll in the world. Actually I think she still is. I remember how happy I was when I finally got my own. She helped me build my imagination and also I used her to learn real life skills such as how to sew, braid hair, and a few others. These skills also helped with my fine muscle development.
Sometime around my later childhood, I was given a pack of Jacks. I practiced playing this game, which requires excellent coordination if the eyes and hands. When I went into high school I was very shy. However, I was able to use my excellent skills in Jacks playing to make friends. Everyone wanted me on their team. Some of those frienships I still value unto today.
I think the face of play is changing for this new generation. They see play as sitting before the television with a nintendo or going on line to video games as play. So if a six year old is asked if he plays, even though he does not engage in outdoor play, he is likely to answer yes. However, the consequences of engaging only in such play is evident. Many children are obese, have pent up emotions and struggle with self regulation, just to name a few. My hope for the children of this generation is
that they will experience the true joys of play. That they too will be able to develop their imagination, creativity, and excetra. Almost all aspects of their development depends on play. As an early childhood professional I will always advocate for play, because I know the benefits that are derived through play and each individual deserves those benefits in childhood and beyond.
