In the late 1800s, the modern play movement was started by the formation of the National Playground Association in Boston. Then in 1948, play hit a plateau. When I m teaching my courses, I see students get very impatient. That s just the nature of urban life today. I remember getting a sack lunch and leaving for the entire day.
Parents are afraid of that now.
I d even add that play is more at risk than it s ever been. Leisure studies professor Jan Tolan at Cal State Northridge in Northridge, California, echoes this view. Many of our children lead very structured lives. And the more complex our society becomes, the more difficult it is to take time and play. Actual playtime is also downsizing because of the continuing electronic infatuation with TV, movies and CD-ROM software, which are passive diversions.