The term 'Play' Defined

[papertalker]

Here is a working defintion of Play for purposes of exploring and using this web site.

Play referred to is innate, higher order learning. Such play is largely unadulterated and uninhibited, and can be consciously, unconsciously, or semi-consciously engaged. Hence, play that is fragile, spontaneous and responsive, involving reciprocal patterns of movement, action, thought, or communication, and often accompanied by silliness, surprise, humor, or fun. This behavior, which is shared by young and old alike, may include word play, make-believe, private speech, improvisation, in-dwelling, day-dreaming, doodling, hand- or puppet play, or the uncensored manipulation or expression of ideas and imaginings. This order of play depends on a degree of feeling free and safe, and may or may not become subject to the more controlled and organized aspects of play associated with competition, electronic games, directed role-playing, formal theater, and the like. True, authentic Play, if sustained, will grow more robust and influence a given space to become more productive, civilized, humanized, empowered and engaged.


© 2006 Jeffrey L. Peyton