I did not attend an early childhood program.
I sadly don't remember much from my younger years.
Most of my memories of play started around the age of 7-8.
I remember we were, almost always outside!
If we weren't playing Mortal Kombat then it was Blind Man's Bluff, Capture, Catch, Rollerblading, or Bike Riding around the neighborhood.
If anyone supported play- it would be my friends.
Today... I feel like I don't see play as much. I don't see children going outside to play- when I ask the youth about their weekend and what they did it almost always involves technology and video games... Now- there are the few who are active because they're on a sports team- but are they doing that for fun? For the Joy of it?
I remember going out to play catch just because I wanted to, not because my parents told me to, or because the coach told me to... but because it's what I wanted to do!
For me, I think the biggest effect play had on me was in regards to my social skills. It really helped me to relate to others and helped me learn to make friends and get to know other people. I was a very self-conscious person growing up and the few friends I did have helped me through learn to socialize throughout elementary and middle school. Honestly, it's been the friends I've made and reconnected with over the last 4 years that have had the greatest effect on my social skills. It just goes to prove that you never stop learning or being influenced by the people around you- regardless of your age.
I relate to you on so many levels! I remember I had neighborhood friends that always got me out of the house and I am grateful for that. It helped me develop my love for the outdoors! I do think it is sad that children these days have to be encouraged to play versus just doing it on their own. I used to love playing catch with my dad and would always ask him to join me versus the other way around!
ReplyDeleteI am glad to hear you have kept your friendships and that they keep you feeling young! I am grateful for mine that's for sure.
Thank you for sharing!
-Krissy
I can relate to you because I did not attend an Early Childhood Program however; I was active in playing with my family and friends as much as possible with my parents supervision. Today many children tend to venture off to technology instead of play. I feel that there should be a time limit with the technology use and still encourage the children to play some time of the day.
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