" For many years I was self-appointed inspector of snowstorms and rainstorms..."
Henry David Thoreau
"Go and play. Run around. Build something. Break something. Climb a tree. Get dirty. Get in some trouble. Have some fun."
Brom, The Child Thief
I grew up in a suburban neighborhood full of other families with children. From the time I can remember I was outdoors playing. First with my cousin in the fenced in backyard and then out to the far reaches of our block and beyond. We made forts in hollowed out bushes, refereed our own kickball games, had lemonade stands... counted the money and rode our bikes (without adults) to the drug store to spend our earnings. I built some of the best friendship of my life in my neighborhood. We played inside too, but it is the memories of running home from school so I could get out with the other children that are the closest to my heart.
Play and the outdoors is part of the culture here in Jackson, Wyoming. Many parents moved here in their early adulthood so they could pursue their favorite play activities... skiing, hiking, kayaking, painting, or gazing at the beauty of the mountains. As they have chosen to have families they encourage their children to get out and play. I see kids making snow forts, riding bikes, swimming in the river and having lemonade stands. I feel lucky to live in such a place.
For many children this is not the case. When I hear statistics related to the hours many children spend in front of a screen, I cannot help thinking of the fun playful experiences they are missing. It makes me sad to think how their muscles are sitting idle, of the friendships that could be developing and the discoveries that are being missed. My awareness of these missed opportunities helps to fuel my desire to advocate for children, their families and the practices that make life rich.
Play is still an important part of my life and fills my heart with joy. In fact I am up late working on my blog so I can ski with friends tomorrow.
Remember...
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing"
George Bernard Shaw
