Happiness is a common resolution each New Year as people look back and reflect on the past year. But why is happiness so elusive? We only get one go-round in this LIFE and it breaks my heart to think people spend it miserable. There are many, many books and articles devoted to helping people find the path to happiness, staying happy or knowing if your happy. But I think there’s a much easier solution and you really only need to think back to your childhood!
I think to find happiness, adults would be wise to adopt a more child-like approach to LIFE…specifically the way children engage in PLAY!
In PLAY:
●Children are fully present
Whether it’s building with blocks, assembling a puzzle, painting at an easel or running outside, they enjoy the moment fully and completely. In fact, they lose themselves in the moment often becoming unaware of time and/or their surroundings!
●Children are inventive
They create PLAY situations using whatever materials and resources are available. They never feel at a loss or less than because they take responsibility to make something happen!
●Children are inclusive
PLAY is social; if other children are interested in what’s going on, they can join in! It doesn’t matter the color of a child’s skin, their economic status—it’s all about the PLAY. Remember children have to be taught to hate.
●Children deal with emotions
PLAY offers a safe environment and provides an appropriate way to express strong emotions.
●Children problem-solve and overcome adversity
PLAY prepares children for the inevitable ups and downs in LIFE. This dress-rehearsal aspect for LIFE is one of the many benefits of PLAY.
Greet the New Year with joy and hopefulness. No one knows what is ahead, but with a PLAY-based outlook you and your kidlet can weather anything LIFE has in store!
Happy New Year!
Yours in Play!
Teacher Karen
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