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P IS FOR PLAY
Play is the language of children and in Denmark protecting children’s right to free play is taken very seriously; it’s considered crucial, not optional. Over scheduling kids is actively avoided; you’re more likely to hear a Danish parent say their child is going to play in the backyard on Saturday rather than take part in organised sport. And by “play” they mean kids are left to their own devices, with a friend or alone, to play exactly as they see fit, for as long as they want.
The Danes recognize play teaches social skills, empathy, self-control, coping mechanisms, and much more. In stark contrast, in most western nations, free play is sadly becoming an endangered species. I was concerned when I read an article recently reporting that some parents are sending their children to “boot camp” to prepare them for kindergarten. As KinderPrep staff in Los Angeles suggest, “When children get into kindergarten, there is no play.” Taking away a child’s ability to play is like taking away their voice; our society needs to realize the detrimental effects of rushing children through childhood and learn from countries like Denmark who are taking a radical approach.”
— From raisedgood.com
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WIND AND STAR
On my back
Looking to the sky
Stone by stone
The years are laid
Upon my chest
The weight becoming
More and more
Unbearable.
