- photo courtesy of Kat Castaneda
While we may have different definitions of PLAY, we all know its importance as children grow. Its a bit disturbing that there are several articles online talking about how children are not given enough time for free play and exploration. Why? Because of the growing demand of our society that pushes parents and even schools to just focus on academic growth alone. We've been schooled about the benefits of early childhood play but how come none of us are practicing them? Is it because we are afraid that our children will fail which will turn heads to the parents who "failed" parenting.
Adults need some time off from the computer screen and mobile phones that are often times abused for work. Kids, too, need some of that. Actually, a lot of time off. Play makes them feel better about themselves. They create their own freedom- to speak, to pretend, to imagine, to laugh and even cry. While school lets our children develop critical thinking, play develops a different side of thinking which I think is taken for granted because again, there is the pressure to maintain high grades.
So to all moms and dads, take it slow and enjoy some time to play with them. You'll be surprised on how much they know their game and how well they play it. ;)
Care to share your favourite childhood game? :)
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