Time to go to Work

Parents of preschoolers,

Isn’t “play” a great word? You hear the word “play” and you instantly think of something fun, something you enjoying doing. Often times we view work as the opposite of play. But with kids their play is often viewed as their work. I recently came across a poem that was written back in 1974 by early childhood educator Anita Wadley Schlaht. She had a very interesting take on the play-work perspective with children. With her permission I gladly share it with you. As you read it I hope it reinforces your view as to the importance of your child playing for all aspects of their development.

JUST PLAYING

by

Anita Wadley Schlaht

When I’m building in the block room, please don’t say I’m JUST playing.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play;

About balance and shapes.

Who knows, I may be an architect someday.

When I’m getting all dressed, setting the table, caring for the babies,

Don’t get the idea I’m JUST playing.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be a mother or a father someday.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint,

Or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping the clay,

Please don’t let me hear you say, “she’s “JUST playing”.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be an artist or inventor someday.

When you see me “reading” to an imaginary audience,

Please don’t laugh and think I’m JUST playing.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be a teacher someday.

When you see me combing the bushes for bugs,

Or packing my pockets with choice things I find,

Don’t pass it off as JUST play.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle,

Or some plaything at my school,

Please don’t feel the time is wasted in play.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to solve problems and concentrate.

I may be in business someday.

When you see me cooking or tasting foods,

Please don’t think that because I enjoy it, it is JUST play.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to follow directions and see differences.

I may be a cook someday.

When you see me learning to

Skip, hop, run, and move my body,

Please don’t say I’m JUST playing.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning how my body works.

I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.

When you ask me what I did at school today, and I say, “I JUST played”,

Please don’t misunderstand me.

For you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to enjoy and be successful in my work.

I’m preparing for tomorrow.

Today, I am a child and my work is play.

I hope you enjoyed and found some value in Anita’s poem. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or comments you might have about the blog, website, or anything else on your mind. I welcome your feedback. God bless you in the challenging and rewarding experience of raising a young child.

John