It’s a wonderful image to think of groups of children on a playground or in the backyard laughing and playing. You probably have great memories of your own childhood, with groups of friends or siblings playing dolls, riding bikes, making up games.
The learning that happens when children play is some of the most important learning that happens in life. When children make their own rules, make decisions, figure out what works and what doesn’t work, they are truly learning how the world operates and how they can control—or not control—their own journey.
In our modern world, though, there appears to be less and less opportunities for play, and even some parents reducing play in favor of “real” learning. Parents who think the competitive world we live in requires a singular focus on facts and mastery often create rigid schedules for their children that don’t allow for free time, imagination, or informal play. The rise in childhood obesity appears to directly coincide with reduced play as well.
The play that happens in front of a TV or video screen does not fully assist children in real-world learning, either. And play that happens under strict adult supervision or with all children of the same age isn’t quite enough. Children learn best when in multi-aged groups, when they are allowed to succeed or fail on their own, when they use their imaginations and find tools and resources around them to assist in their play, and when they use their minds and bodies equally.
Fortunately, places like the Discovery Museum exist to provide a safe place for imaginary play and self-directed or “free choice” learning—but your own backyard, the local park, or even a child’s bedroom can be wonderful places for play. Child’s play is hard and important work. Let your kids work overtime!
Kelly White O’Neill is executive director of the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum. Discovery Corner is a weekly column in the Sun, highlighting events, science activities, and more for the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum at 705 S. McClelland St. in Santa Maria. Send comments to discoverycorner@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Oct 6-13, 2011.