My Connections to Play

Quotes regarding play

• “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”-  George Bernard Shaw
• “It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them.”- Leo F. Buscaglia

Essential Play Items

IMAGINATION

IMAGINATION

ENDLESS MATERIALS

LOVE, SUPPORT, FRIENDSHIP

Role of Play throughout life

I was always allowed to play, and be creative throughout my childhood.  My philosophy for the children that I work with as well as my own daughter is to allow every opportunity to use their imagination.  Imagination includes the exploration of the environment, and how we work within that environment.  Play has become much different in the years since I was a young child.  The biggest difference that I have observed is the dependency on plastic toys, and multimedia toys.  When I was younger we used our imagination to play grocery store, or school.  Now, children have access to realistic foods, and items.  Additionally, when I was younger children didn't have the availability to multimedia or electronic toys.  In today's world children are emerging from their homes, without the ability to have appropriate social interactions.  Too much time is spent in front of the television and/or the computer.  When I was younger, we played outside until it got dark.  I understand that times change and I respect that some of the changes over the years have benefited many people.  I feel however that children are now incapable to hold positive social interactions with peers, and teachers.  Sometimes, I wish we could go back 20 years, and just show today's children that we were completely happy using our imagination, and playing with our friends.

Relationship Reflection

My Daughter Julianna & husband Justin

My daughter Julianna & Me

Relationships are vitally important in my life.  I have a small but tight-knit family.  My family consists of the following people...

My Baby

My Mom & daughter

My relationships with the few important people in my life have helped to develop my personality, and lifestyle.  My mother and I are very close.    We do everything together and speak on the phone at least 3-5 times per day.  She raised me on a teacher's income, and we struggled. I never wanted for anything, she inspired my love of education and children.

My husband and I met when I was 18 years old and a freshman at Penn State.  We got married 7 years later, and had a daughter 5 1/2 years after that.  We've been married eight years, and I believe we are soul mates.  My daughter Julianna is my heart and soul. My daughter was born in March 2009, nine weeks early weighing just 2 lbs. 12 oz, and measuring a mere 14 in. long.  Despite her early arrival, she has no lasting effects, besides being petite.  I have a few close friends and family that are a strong support system for me.  I was recently blessed with two godsons Caiden & Christopher, they are adorable.  Julianna considers them her little brothers and they adore her as well.  Then again, look at that face, who wouldn't???