As an only child, I played a lot by myself and that was usually when I played school, Barbies, or pure imaginative play when I was with my grandparents. I played a lot in my grandfather's welding shop too, acting things out and pretending the nut or bolt I found on the ground had some great meaning. I liked to pretend I was in charge of his shop and that I worked there as well, always tinkering with his office supplies, etc.
When I would play with friends though, that's when the great times at the city park would happen or the Barbies would travel down the alley with me to play in the outdoor playhouse or my friend's bedroom. I have never been one that has played video games. Board games have been a big part of my life, but not so much the "screentime" that is such a necessity now. I get worried when I see students that are unable to conjure up their imaginations. However, I am a supporter of technology for learning purposes and think it is fantastic. I am just nervous that they are growing to depend on it too much and are missing out on the amazing experiences of childhood. It could just be a sign of the changing times that come with every generation's passing, though. Things aren't meant to always stay the same, but I try to instill a love of real, imaginative play in all of my students.
