Comments on: Free play isn’t just wasted time!

By: noelle

noelle — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 19:37:34 +0000

It is really amazing to see how far you’ve come – I love being a part of it. To see where you were two years ago, and to watch you see where you want to go, and navigate how to get there… I think that parenting is as much of a journey for you as it is for Sami.

I played with some toys when I was little, and some of the dolls did stand in for other things, but we also played a LOT outside. My barbies rode in my tonka truck. We built damns in the mud and then had to get hosed off!!

It’s also interesting to read the article and your blog after having taken so many child psych classes in college. I found it fascinating to go on a 6th grade trip in the midst of one of my developmental psych classes – it was like “here it is, IN ACTION!!!” I almost had to stop myself from laughing. My teacher thought it was a game to look at my facial expressions!

The part about the worrying – yeah, for me it’s easier said than done. We talked about this on Saturday!!

noelle’s last blog post..new friends, old friends, and changes

By: Grandma Ann

Grandma Ann — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 18:53:33 +0000

Hi Cheryl,

I heard that NPR segment yesterday and was thinking about you. As you know, we raised our kids on 3 words, “GO PLAY OUTSIDE!” But I used to sit on the couch and listen to their wildly imaginative play in the trees outside.

Don’t worry about toys. Kids have had dolls and blocks and legos and tinker toys for generations. And they will always do what we do, not what we say. The Kindergarteners loved playing school and could imitate me perfectly. So Sami will do what she sees you do and want to play with whatever you have.

The real problem these researchers are worried about is “No child left behind” and the incredible amount of time schools are dedicating to teaching the test.

Sami is an amazing kid. She is already showing signs of organizational skills and great imagination. Just relax and enjoy the show. Nothing is more fun than watching your child grow and change.

By: sami's auntie E

sami's auntie E — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:48:27 +0000

I find it fascinating to read your thoughts as you hash through the best way to be a good parent. Fascinating because I knew you in college, and I’m still a little stunned that there’s a Sami.

Also- I think what you’re saying is spot on- unstructured playtime is immensely valuable. Lettuce on the head, fascination with dustpans, who knows.
And yes- I think Sami absolutely CAN have both- with the right school, she can have a good school environment, and also you and Ben at home to help her pursue her own imaginative, freewheeling goals.
Plus also- remember Sami’s dozens of “aunts” and “uncles” only a mouse click away, and ready to help her explore, goof off and learn stuff.