Playing for Balance

Education is an essential part of life. All parents want their children to attend school and learn to be happy, secure adults. 

When I was a child, outdoor play was part of our formal education. We enjoyed two recess periods and another break to play after lunch during a typical school day. Often, our teacher would take our class outside to play group games. We played kickball, soccer, basketball, and capture the flag. My typical school day was seven hours, and much of our class time was outside. 

Outside physical activity balances the school day and provides children an opportunity to recharge, refocus, and rejuvenate. Children prepare their bodies and minds for the next learning adventure as they play. Many schools are realizing the benefits of play and extending recess.

How can school-age educators help children strike a balance between homework and play?

The road ahead leads us, the educators who work in school-age care. We have an opportunity to be a guiding light, a force for good, and the champions of play! We have many hours at our disposal every day. We can promote and implement a school-age program that prioritizes play and being outside. We could be a program that uses valuable after-school hours outside. The children could be in nature, tipping the scales back into balance.

Many of us think of a different kind of balance when it comes to working. Work hard, play hard, is the idea of balance for many of us. Trying to live this motto is popular but is not in balance. Work hard, play hard, pulls at two extremes, and leave the middle empty. It creates tension at both ends and leaves stress and exhaustion in the wake. Balance is like a quality prepared meal, a few selected ingredients mixed up with skill and delivered with the utmost care.

There is an opportunity for school-age educators to tip the scales back into balance. We can influence parents and other adults about the benefits of play. We can show that play is good for learning and creates a happier and healthier community. To realize these benefits, all we must do is put our pencils away and go outside a little longer each day. 

As a school-age educator, how do you invite children to spend more time outdoors?