My Connections to Play

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” -Kay Redfield Jamison

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw

My Essential Play Items


I loved playing with Barbie dolls as a child. I even conned my little brother to play with me!


I had a yellow bicycle when I was a little girl that I loved riding.


As I child, my brother and I enjoyed playing. We didn't need much encouraging because we loved it so much. We would play throughout the daylight hours. I also loved pretending to be a teacher and having a classroom of students. My dolls were students, as well as, my mother and brother.

I strongly feel that play is much different today than as when I was a child. Children, of today, do not seem to enjoy playing outside. It almost seems as though some children do not know how to play. I think this is because of the technology that has increased within our society. I think technology is very helpful and beneficial; however many children are obsessed with computerized games.

Relationship Reflection

Relationships are very important to me because they help make me who I am. Meaningful relationships are important to our health and success. I have several significant relationships including my husband, my sons (Jacob and Jordan), my mother, sister and brother, and many other family members as well as friends. Each relationship has its own identity and is cultivated in different ways.

It takes time to develop meaningful relationships. Spending time and talking with each other is a vital part in any relationship. Communication, respect, and honesty are  important factors when building relations.

My most ultimate relationship is the one I have with my Jesus, my Lord and Savior. Without this relationship, I would be nothing. I thank Him for this.

As an educator, I want to build relationships with my students and their families. It is important for teachers to communicate with parents regularly. Building parent/teacher connections can include making positive phone calls, inviting parents to participate in decision making for students, share student success stories, and listen to the parents and child.