Just Playing by Anita Wadley (poem for parents of small children)

Just Playing Poem by Anita Wadley

I am so lucky!  My youngest has the most amazing Kindergarten teacher.  But, sadly, as this is my last child, this is also the last time I will get her (though you can be sure that we will visit her forever!).  Last night was Curriculum Night at school, and she passed out a packet of information as she usually does including this poem on Playing as a Child’s Work.

You might have received this poem from your preschool as well, but it bears re-reading!  And it just might help you discover clues to what your child might become when he or she is all grown up!

p.s.  If you like this poem, you might like How to Love a Child by Sark.  It’s been one of my most popular posts and it’s another sweet poem.

Just Playing

When I am building in the block room,

Please don’t say I’m “Just Playing.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play,

About balance and shapes.

Who knows, I may be an an architect someday.

When I am getting all dressed up,

Setting the table, caring for the babies,

Don’t get the idea I’m “Just Playing.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m expressing myself and being creative.

I may be an artist or an inventor someday.

When you see me sitting in a chair

“Reading” to an imaginary audience,

Please don’t laugh and think I’m “Just Playing.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be a teacher someday.

When you see me combing the bushes for bugs,

Or packing my pockets with choice things I find,

Don’t pass it off as “Just Play.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or some

“plaything” at my school,

Please don’t feel that time is wasted in “Play.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to solve problems and concentrate.

I may be in business some day.

When you see me cooking or tasting foods,

Please don’t think that because I enjoy it, it is “Just Play.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to follow directions and see differences.

I may be a cook someday.

When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body,

Please don’t say I’m “Just Playing.”

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning how my body works.

I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.

When you ask me what I’ve done at school today,

And I say, I “Just played.”

Please don’t misunderstand me.

For, you see, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to enjoy and be successful at my work,

I’m preparing for tomorrow.

Today, I am a child and my work is play.

Anita Wadley

Edmond, Oklahoma

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