“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” Says Fred Rogers…

Mr Rogers isn’t the only advocate of play .  The American Pediatric Association says that “play is essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children.” 

The benefits of play seem to be undisputed, but the amount of play in our schools and homes seems to be lacking.

I remember when I was a kindergarten teacher 25 years ago, children attended school only a half day, leaving the other half of the day for rest and play. We also had “play centers”  in our classroom. These centers included play kitchens, dress up clothes, blocks, railways and other toys for creative play. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. Academic pressures have and continue to reduce the amount to playtime for school aged children.

Creating time and space for play at home is also at risk.  Our schedules are full and our time is scarce.  We are stressed out and overwhelmed…and this was true before COVID….now we are extra stressed and overwhelmed… we need to slow down and make time to connect, to rest and to PLAY….

So, in today’s episode I am calling for some playful practice.  Being playful comes easy for some. My husband, for example is naturally playful, me on the other hand, I have to practice.

This week I’ll share why I think play is worthy of the effort and one of the most valuable tools in the parenting toolbox.  I’ll also share 3 of the many reasons to be the most playful parent you can be… 

For more great ideas on play check out: