JUST PLAYING...

"Just Playing"

By Anita Wadley

Gateways to Learning

Edmond Oklahoma



When I’m building in the block room.

Please don’t say I’m “Just Playing.”

For you see. I’m learning as I play.

About balance and shapes.

Who knows. I may be an architect someday.



When I’m getting all dressed up.

Setting the table. Caring for the babies.

Don’t get the idea I’m “Just Playing.”

For you see. I’m learning as I play.

I may be a mother or father someday.



When you see me up to my elbows in paint.

Or standing at an easel. Or molding and shaping clay.

Please don’t let me hear you say. “He is just Playing.”

For you see. I’m learning as I play.

I may be a teacher someday.



When you see me cooking or tasting foods.

Please don’t think that because I enjoy it. It is “Just Play.”

I’m learning to follow directions and see differences.

I may be a cook someday.



When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body.

Please don’t say I’m “Just Playing.”

For as you see. I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning how my body works.

I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.



When you ask me what I’ve done at school today.

And I say, “I just Played.”

Please don’t misunderstand me.

For you see. I’m learning as I play. I’m learning to enjoy and be successful in my work.

I’m preparing for tomorrow.

Today I am a child and my work is play.