As educators, we often talk about the importance of play in young children’s lives. We see the joy that play brings to kids: How it opens opportunities for moments of meaningful and creative interactions with the world. 

When my youngest was 2, 3, and 4, he always asked for “sticks, lots of sticks” for holidays and his birthday. He’s not alone! Children love to play with sticks; however, some adults may feel uncomfortable with stick playing.

"So often, children experience joy and wonder, even awe--but as adults, we no longer do." I hear this misconception all the time. Does being an adult mean no longer experiencing awe or wonder?

You’re sitting on the playground bench chatting with a parent you just met as your 5- year-olds race through the wood chips, chasing each other up the ladder and down the slide. You are half paying attention, feeling confident that the shrieks and sounds are happy in nature.