The Value of Play
posted by Ben on Friday, November 13th, 2009
G.K. Chesterton said that the true object of human life is play, and nowhere is that more evident than right here at Camp Alvernia. I always tell people I have the greatest job anyone could have, and it’s true. I get to spend my days helping children grow, helping staff learn, and encouraging parents and families. And I am constantly reminded of Chesterton’s wisdom as I make my way around our beautiful 15 acres every summer. It is easy for us adults to get caught up in the serious stuff of life — paying bills, visiting relatives, dealing with personal situations, etc. — and forget to enjoy ourselves. But it’s hard to stay serious when a group of Cayuga boys comes around the corner with huge gap-toothed smiles and loud hellos.
There are so many things in life that compete for our attention, and kids help to remind us of what’s really important. A mad footrace around the main building is pure enthusiasm and adrenaline, the thrill of competition, and the joy of hearing your friends scream your name in encouragement. Going out in a canoe or sailboat for the first time is facing a challenge, feeling the butterflies in your stomach and the fear of failure, and finding fulfillment in learning to do something you weren’t able to do yesterday. Playing hard isn’t all enjoyment either; sometimes the sweat and heat calls for a refreshing dip in the pool, which soothes tired muscles and cools hot skin. And what better way to pause in the middle of all the activity than to sit under a tree and listen to a quiet story read by someone who cares, a story which teaches something special and important about fairness or love.
As part of my Camp Alvernia family, I want to encourage you to get down on your hands and knees so to speak and get dirty with your kids. Stay connected with their lives, their interests, their friends. Not only do they need you, you need them.