Anita Wadley wrote in her 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."