😊Reflection on Play and Learning😊
The past two sessions in the Play in Early Childhood Education module have been a journey of nostalgia, learning, and self-reflection. As I sat in Manjushri Hall with my classmates, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity about what lay ahead. It’s fascinating how something as natural as play in childhood can become such an important subject of study.
On February 10, our first session was more than just an introduction to the module—it was a trip down memory lane. We began by discussing the semester work plan, assessment expectations, and setting ground rules. But the real magic began when we started sharing our childhood play memories. It was like unearthing little gems of joy from the past.
As we shared our stories, I was reminded of my teaching practice days. I had seen firsthand how play enriched children’s learning experiences. Whether it was a simple game of hopscotch or an elaborate role-playing activity, play transformed learning into something fun and meaningful. This reinforced my belief in creating inclusive play environments that foster curiosity and growth.
The Memory Sharing Circle was a particularly touching moment. Listening to everyone’s stories made me reflect on my own childhood adventures—the carefree days spent climbing trees, building imaginary worlds, and laughing uncontrollably over the simplest things. The Pass the Clap game was a fun addition, showing us how easy it is to connect through play, no matter our age.
Session 2: Understanding Play on a Deeper Level
By February 12, our discussions took a more analytical turn as we explored the socio-cultural aspects of play. We revisited our childhood games but this time with a fresh perspective, asking deeper questions: What is play? Why is play sometimes seen as a challenge? How does play differ across cultures and generations?
One of the most thought-provoking discussions centered around the role of technology in play. When I was a child, play was all about physical activity—running, jumping, imagining entire worlds. But today, children’s play is often shaped by screens and digital interactions. This shift made me wonder: Are we losing something valuable, or is this just a natural evolution of play? It’s a question that lingered in my mind long after the session ended.
Key Takeaways from These Sessions
Play is more than just fun. It plays a crucial role in shaping cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Culture influences play. The way children play is deeply rooted in societal norms, traditions, and even history.
Modernization is transforming play. The transition from outdoor and imaginative play to digital play raises important questions about child development.
As future educators, we play a vital role. How can we design inclusive play environments that honor both traditional and modern play experiences?
A Question for the Future
One idea that truly resonated with me is the evolving nature of play in the digital age. How do we strike a balance between technology-driven play and the hands-on, imaginative play that defined our childhood? How do we ensure that children still experience the joy, creativity, and social bonding that play fosters? This is something I want to explore further in my journey as an educator.
That's all for now ☝ Until next time! 😊
beautifully written, love to read more.
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