APP News defined the importance of play as "essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth." Recently, play has become reduced for children. Schools have lowered play times, created silent recesses or cut play all together. As the world advances, hurried lifestyles follow, family structures change and academics become a large increase of attention.

School boards have begun to implement rigorous education programs cutting play because there is simply no time. In many cases, play is viewed as unimportant time in the classroom. Pediatricians, teachers, daycare providers and psychologists will all agree that play is equally important. It is important for children to learn these skills mentioned above in order to further their education. Without social, cognitive and physical skills, children will fall behind regardless of what they have learned in the classroom.

Without the freedom of play, children will not grow. They will not be able to explore themselves, the world or the emotional well-being of others. Education boards believe school is meant for learning, and children can play when they get home. Unfortunately, with society expanding and advancing, many children spend time in after school programs and don't see their homes until the earning. Others are forced to stay indoors due to the extraneous amount of homework given.

Play outside of the classroom has changed dramatically over the past 40 years. It has been lost to technology and fear of unsafe streets and neighborhoods. The more people who become educated on their child's human rights (which are defined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: the right to play), the better the outcome for children and their education.

Recently, four College of Charleston students took on a project of their own advocating for adequate play spaces. They focused on making sure children at MUSC had the supplies needed in order to play while visiting the hospital. These students attended a freshman class called Advocacy For Children And Families.

Regardless of your stance on this issue, you too can advocate for children and schools in your community. These students encourage you to educate yourself on the importance of play and what you can do to make sure play opportunities are available.