Growing up as a child it seemed as if we played everyday Starting early in the morning, in school, or right after school. All the children on the same street would play together and the household with the most children usually was the meeting place. We were all of different ages and genders. Playing all types of games that included using fine motor skills, gross motor skills, physical activities, exploring, thinking games, or games with rules. We all learned from one another, built close relationships, social skills, and even learned how to solve problems from arguments we may have had during a game.
Today I feel as though play is sort of an endangered species. Neighborhoods aren't crowded with children playing sports, riding bikes, or playing. Even on Christmas the streets are not as crowded as they use to be with children playing outside. Most children are at home playing video games or watching television which has a lot to do with obesity, laziness, and underdevelopment of social skills. Not only is play limited at home but also in school. Lots of recess time is being cut to make more time for other learning subjects such as math, science, language arts, or just being taught for standardized testing. Play is important so what road will our children be directed to without it.
Erika
ReplyDeleteIts wonderful that you were able to build relationships and play with the children in your neighborhood. Oftentimes, neighborhood groups are some of the first groups a child learns to interact in. It is sad that today's child may not be so lucky developing those types of important early relationships due to safety issues and an overall less sociable nature in today's society.
~M.Bussey