"Play is a uniquely adaptive act, not subordinate to some other adaptive act, but with a special function of its own in human experience"
- Johan Huizinga
About this Quote
This quote by Johan Huizinga talks to the importance of play in human experience. He recommends that play is not subordinate to any other adaptive act, however rather has its own special function. This suggests that play is not merely a way to an end, however rather an end in itself. Play is a vital part of human life, and it serves a range of purposes. It can be used to explore and find out about the world, to reveal feelings, to construct relationships, and to just have fun. Play is likewise an important part of advancement, as it helps kids discover how to connect with others, establish problem-solving skills, and develop self-esteem. Huizinga's quote emphasizes the value of play in human experience, and recommends that it is an adaptive show its own special function.
"It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them"