| The "hurried child syndrome" is of concern to many educators and parents. One of the ways we can help children develop more slowly, despite a sometimes hurrying environment, is to allow them time for unstructured play. This study focuses on children's attitudes and concerns regarding play on the school playground. If we can view our children's thoughts and concerns through their eyes, we can help meet their individual needs and, as a result, avoid hurrying our children.;Although some of the children's concerns, attitudes, and ideas were the same as researchers' and playground developers', many were different. This study explores these differences, along with others, that need to be given attention in order to provide quality play periods for children.;The children in this study rarely mentioned the structure of the playground; their responses centered on emotional and social issues. Peers, rather than physical environment, were the overriding factor on where children chose to play. When the children were asked what they might change about recess, many of their answers involved changes that they could make independently to improve their play situation.;Specific recommendations for classroom teachers include holding regular class meetings in order to listen to what children are saying regarding their present play times and helping children explore solutions for playground concerns. Teachers are encouraged to spend time on play areas so they can better know the "whole" child. School districts can make recess a mandatory part of the curriculum, ensuring a commitment toward play. Teacher education programs could teach future teachers how to help young children deal with their developing world of play.;This is a descriptive study using child interviews, child illustrations, and video-tapes to explore children's thoughts and feelings regarding recess. The population studied consisted of 16 kindergarten students who played on two different play areas. The study examines what researchers, playground developers and these children are saying about attitudes, concerns, and ideas regarding recess. |
