My Connections to Play

Playing is an essential part of childhood.  We have learned so much through playing.  

Can you remember trying to call your family from your pull along phone?  My aunt was in Germany and my uncle in Japan, but with my phone I spoke with them daily.  

I can remember trying to get all of the pieces into their proper location within a minute.  It required plenty of looking and strategizing to get them in the correct location.  It was a challenge that my siblings and I would play before going outside.   

Playing and using your imagination was something that we had to do as children.  We would go outside and not be allowed to come back in unless we were going to the bathroom or getting a drink.  We played with the neighbors and got snacks and toys from relatives down the street.  Playing was very different back then compared to now.  We were required to use our imagination and staying inside all day was punishment rather than a normal thing.  There were electronics, but it was a reward to be able to play with them.  I loved using my imagination.  It was a way for me to travel around the world.  I acted as if I knew how to speak different languages and would ask for tea and biscuits from my cousins.  I would also pretend to be a teacher.  I would teach the trees and leaves, because my sister and brother would be playing sports.  It is funny how my playing is a reflection of the field I would like to advance into.  I guess that is how we learn as we play.