Re-learning the Art of Play: Reflections of an ABA Therapist

“Lava!!!” he shouts and jumps from stone to stone.

“Aah!! Don’t fall in!” I exclaim, stepping from the pillow to the mat and joining him.

I look up to see the five-year-old’s smiling face full of wonder and delight. I return the smile and look at the floor.

“Lava!!!” he says again and steps forward.

And I try to picture it. To see what he sees.

As a Registered Behavior Technician who works with kids, part of my job is being a quality play-partner. It has shown me the importance of play. As adults, we too often neglect to use our imagination and creativity. The stress of finances, work, health, and family drama fog our minds until we’re paralyzed.

This week, the children I work with reminded me that not everything has to be tense and serious. Have fun. Enjoy dance parties and games. Let yourself laugh. Imagination isn’t just a gift for kids, but for all of us.