"Play is the highest form of research." ~Albert Einstein
Throughout childhood toys foster both imaginative and pretend play. From dolls and action figures to being with in the kitchen and helping to prepare a meal, brain development is taking place. In a digital age where children of all ages are consumed with technology, lost are the days when after school activities involved changing into play clothes to go outside and play. Games like, "Red light, Green light", Double-Dutch, Hop-Scotch and Hide & Seek to name a few were sure to keep neighborhood children engaged for hours. The Summer was especially fun because the longer days meant we had more time to play. For those of us who had Big Wheels, Roller Skates or a Sit'n Spin, those toys were sure to find their way outside with us, at some point. And, a pair of adjustable skates, so that everyone could have a turn! So much fun.
Providing children with opportunities to independently explore and discover their environments is vital and essential to learning. I feel fortunate to have been allowed to be a child and experience the freedom of my childhood. From building forts in the bedroom, to positioning my View Master towards a lamp, I would not trade anything for the places my imagination took me. Understanding its value, I advocate for children of all ages to be exposed to frequent and varied opportunities to discover themselves through play. n♥
NiKiesha,we share some of the same childhood memories. It is so amazing that we grew up almost alike . I can remember playing with those same toys and they were so enjoyable. I can also remember i had this toy that was a record player and a view master all in one and it was my favorite. Thank you so much for sharing and taking me down memory lane.
ReplyDeleteI had to laugh at myself when you talked about the expense of play . . . I can recall so many times I bought my children an expensive toy only to have them play for hours with the packaging. Go figure.
ReplyDeleteRed Light, Green Light and Hopscotch are STILL two of my favorite games and I am 24 years old! I learned my lesson now about spending too much cash on toys. My daughter would only play with the packaging but my son would play for a few hours and then say "I'm done; where's my new toy?"
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