I heard it from my kitchen. The sound of "Broom, Broom" carried up to me. Someone was 'driving' down in the family room. Speeding toy cars crossed the floor. Vehicles were parked in homemade parking ramps. Cars were winding over make-believe roads, passing rivers, crossing mountains, and going through tunnels. A common occurrence you say. Agreed, if small children live in your house.

This happened in a group home for almost adult boys. The driver- a tough, seventeen years old whose reputation would be lost forever if his peers saw him playing. This kid wore chains and leather. This foster kid may have had few opportunities to play while young. He had a rough childhood.

Never underestimate the value of toys and play for older children. All kids need play to grow and learn. Play mimics life. Toys are the tools used to learn how to be an adult. Toys and play free a person from restraints either self-imposed or put on you by others. It allows you that child-like quality of wonder at each discovery you make.

We have watched teens entertain smaller kids by playing with them. As they build castles and roads in the sand, it was difficult to determine who had more fun. Playing with dolls with a younger sister teach both girls more about fashion or childcare. Now, very sophisticated dolls are even used in schools to teach young people about the awesome responsibility of raising a child.

Beginning toy collectors ourselves, we know the joy toys can bring. We watch adults eagerly collect adults and toys as they try to recapture their own childhood.

Childhood should be a wonderful, carefree time for kids. It should prepare them for adulthood and teach lessons of life. We can accomplish both goals by encouraging play. Kids are never too old for toys. We hurry them into adulthood without allowing them time to be children. Give them creative toys and let them play. While they are playing, they are learning how to be adults. Give them the time- let them be kids.

Credits: Jo Ann Wentzel