My daughter brought this home from school, knowing I am not the only parent (and nearly everyone interacts with young children at some point!) posting here.  I thought this was cute and thought you may enjoy too......

Just Playing

Author Unknown

When I'm building in the block area,

Please don't say I'm "just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play:  about balance and shapes.

Who knows, I may be an architect someday.

When I'm getting all dressed up, setting the table, and caring for the babies,

Don't get the idea I'm, "just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I may be a mother or a father someday.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint, or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay,

Please don't let me hear you say, "He's just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I'm expressing myself and being creative.

I may be an artist or an inventor someday.

When you see me sitting in a chair "reading" to an imaginary audience,

Please don't laugh and think I'm "just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I may be a teacher someday.

When you see me combing the bushes for bugs, or packing my pockets with choice things I find,

Don't pass it off as "just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or some plaything at school,

Please don't feel the time is wasted in "play."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I'm learning to solve problems and to concentrate.

I may be in business someday.

When you see me cooking and tasting foods.

Please don't think that because I enjoy it, it is "just playing."

For you see, I'm learning as I play.

I'm learning to follow directions and see differences.

I may be a cook someday.