Let Them Play

 Let them play

Let them play, they are only little so long.

"But what about their workbooks", asks doubt as it whispers in my ear. "Other kids are not learning through play, you better focus on the books."

My heart yearns to be in nature, to walk the trails, explore the ponds, study the bugs, build with sticks, count the clouds.

Let them play, they are only little so long.

"But they need to study, to do math on paper." says doubt louder this time.

My heart calls to me to breathe the fresh air, bask in the sun, learn through life, be in the world. Spread a blanket in the grass and read a story, draw on the side walk, splash in the puddles, dig in the dirt, plant a garden.

Let them play, they are only little so long.

"That's not enough," says doubt even louder."You have to follow the rules, stay indoors for school."


My heart aches to study the birds, go on a scavenger hunt, visit the museums, explore the arts, to cook and bake.

Let them play, they are only little so long.

"You are going to fail them," screams doubt in my ear.

"But what if they thrive," answers my heart.

What if they not only learn, but they love to learn? What if they become the best they can be.
I can do this, I can balance books and play.

So I let them play, for they are only little so long.