Play

After today's lecture it made me think of how many times I have seen or watched kids play and did not think anything of it.  It was interesting to hear that how kids play is a form of communication for them to other kids and adults.  My mom is a therapist who deals with families and children and anytime she has to work with kids or talk to them she gives them something to do with their hands.  It can be crayons and paper, a little game, or even a toy car.  She told me that when kids are focusing on whatever they are playing with, they tend to talk more and express themselves more as opposed to them just talking and not doing anything else.  When I work with families and children in the future I know I will follow my mom's advice.  I also thought one of the most important thing Professor Hollist talked about was that when kids turn to aggression or act angry, we cannot jump to conclusions.  I think it's natural for us to automatically assume the worst--abuse, but it is important that we think of other alternatives before jumping to conclusions.  Overall, I learned a lot about children, parenting, and families today that I think are useful in the professional world, but also on a personal level.