By Tamara Fyke

A few years ago, I took my youngest son and his friend to Laser Quest. It’s the best laser tag place I know, full of two-story mazes covered in glow-in-the-dark paint. I had intended to sit and wait for the boys as they enjoyed their experience, but a quick phone call with Mom changed that plan. “Go play. Have fun! I would if I was there,” encouraged Mom. She knows I’m still a kid at heart, just like her. With her voice ringing in my ears, I played two of the greatest games of laser tag in my life! And, of course, my son enjoyed having me play right along with him.

I often muse on that adventure, reflecting on the importance of play and celebration. 

In an age where standardized test scores often overshadow whole child development, schools are either shortening or eliminating recess entirely.  Afterschool programs are focused on enhancing academics.  At home, overachieving parents are shuttling kids from one activity to another without providing much downtime. Or if there is time at home, each family member is isolated by staring at a screen. Are we afraid of letting kids be bored every now and then, even when boredom can breed innovation?  Public Television’s beloved Fred Rogers of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood said, “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.” Are we providing time and space for this type of serious learning?

A constructivist approach lends itself to play. Play is a beautiful way to connect with others and practice social and emotional skills, behaviors, and competencies. Play provides a safe space — a microcosm of society — in which children learn to cooperate and compromise with one another. It’s also a whole lot of fun!

Not only is play important for kids, but it is also vital for adults. Miguel Sicart says, “Play is the expressive, creative, appropriative, and personal activity through which we make sense of the world.” Play is more than an activity; it is a mindset. L.P. Jacks notes, “The master in the art of living makes little distinction between work and play, labor and leisure, mind and body, information and recreation, and love and religion. He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him, he’s always doing both.” Through play we cultivate curiosity and creativity. It fosters a sense of belonging and brings us joy, which gives us strength. I believe play is essential to living life to the fullest.

I remember a child development expert once telling me to take 20 minutes a day to play with my kids… just time to play and be thankful.  I challenge you to set aside 20 minutes a day to play and celebrate with your kids. Let’s make a game of it!

As Fred Rogers of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, “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.”

Let’s keep this in mind as we educate our children, whether as a teacher, an administrator, or as a parent. Aside from the fact that play is the natural way that children learn about their world and develop their minds, there is something else to be considered: Play is (and should be) fun. Wouldn’t it be great to spend time with your students or children and have tons of fun doing it? Something to think about.

Three fun, old-fashioned games to play after school this week:

1.  Game 1:  Kickball
2. Game 2:  Relay Races
3. Game 3:  Upset the Fruit Basket

About the author

Tamara Fyke is an educator and social entrepreneur with a passion for kids, families, and urban communities. She is the creator and author of Love In A Big World, which provides mental health, SEL, and wellness curriculum and content. During quarantine, Tamara created MusiCity Kids, an online educational show for kids ages 6-12 that addresses health, movement, character development, STEAM, and more.

This article was originally published by The Learning Counsel, a research institute and news media hub focused on providing context for the shift in education to digital curriculum.