My Connections to Play

"Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood, for it alone is the free expression of what is in the child's soul."  Friedrich Froebel

"It is a happy talent to know how to play." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Pretend play, dressing in costumes, role playing was one of my favorite child  games to play(Left).

I grew up in a poor environment and had no preschool experiences, so nature was my play and was my teacher(Right).

Puzzles were a favorite activity during Kindergarten.

The support I received when I was a child during play was limited.  I do not remember any teacher interaction or parent interaction.  I do remember centers set up during Kindergarten and having to sign up for centers to make sure that we were not choosing the same center each play time.  The centers were house, giant blocks, kitchen, trains.  I do not recall any others, but do remember loving the blocks because you could build a fort they were so large.   During recess, they children ran around playing on slipper slides, jungle gyms, kickball, etc. 

Today, play in school is more organized with more specific purpose.  I do hope as my children grow that they can experience both worlds.  I never felt as a child pressured during play to "perform", but get the impression that my children do.  At least they did until I chose to home-school due to a relocation.  This opportunity with my children has given me a glimpse into true feelings about everything.  It has been a great experience thus far and has made me a more receptive educator.  

I also think play for adults is good also because sometimes as we grow, we forget how to relax and just enjoy being alive.  This also gives our children the opportunity to see by example.