I was just browsing CNN and I found a very interesting article that emphasises the importance of spontaneous play for children and the effects that it has and that the lack of it has. I know this is random, but from a teacher prospective I found it very intriquing.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/parentin ... index.html
"Numerous studies have shown that unstructured play has many benefits. It can help children become creative, discover their own passions, develop problem-solving skills, relate to others and adjust to school settings, the academy report says."
I think this is an area that we tend to forget about because of the demand for acheiving greatness and staying busy. When I was home a few weeks ago I visited my mom who was subbing for a kindergarten class. I got there for recess and was sad to learn that the school had made many restrictions for the students during recess because of parent complaints that it was too unstructured. Isn't that the point? I can understand for safety issues, but I mean thats not enough reason to demand structure to play time for 5 year olds. Where is the room for creativity and imagination that is so vital? What do you guys think of this and how can we encourage play in our overly structured and demanding classrooms?