The Power of Play

Play is a necessary.  This was the message that was shared during our September tech professional development sessions at Yorktown Community Schools.  After watching clips that contained the wise words of Kevin Carroll, ISTE Keynote Speaker 2014, YCS teachers were asked to reflect on how much of their own learning happens when they allow themselves time to play. 

Play is timeless. This message was loud and clear in Kevin Carroll’s message. As I reflect on own play experiences over the years, I know this to be true. As a little girl, gymnastics was my “red rubber ball”.  I could constantly be found with my tail in the air, perfecting a streamlined handstand that was nothing short of pristine. My favorite trick did not come easy. I started by doing a handstand against a wall; the training wheel move, if you will. This quickly transitioned to freestanding handstands. Though I couldn’t hold them long, this allowed me to continue to develop strength in my shoulders and back, both of which I needed to increase the quality of my overall gymnastics. When my handstands were solid, I branched out even more, working on the walk on your hands move that is coveted by children everywhere. Forward or backward, I was a handstand-walking boss!

As an adult, I find that my red rubber ball has changed. I still play to learn, but what I’m learning is far less physical. I play for confidence in my work. I play for the sake of finding things that will make my life easier and more efficient. I play with the hope that the tools that I’m learning to use will be shared with my teachers in a way that will inspire them to integrate technology in an effort to transform the learning environment of their students. 

Play is empowering. Play is fun. These statements could not be more true. As my teachers participate in our Tech PD Playgrounds, I am so proud of the risks they take, as well as the way they share what they are discovering with their colleagues. Though I’m not sure why we as adults need to be reminded that it is okay to play, I am happy that when permission is granted, we quickly remember how it is done. What’s most important is that whether we are still standing on our hands against a wall, or if we are free standing walking across the floor, we never quit trying to take our learning to the next level through play. Whether you are just learning to navigate your device, or you are leading others in the integration charge, we all have so much still to learn. It’s been a long time, but maybe I’ll try to walk on my hands again. 

Carroll, Kevin. "Play is Necessary."  TED X Harlem.  27 July 2012.