Why “Play” is so Important …

Speech given November 20, 2022, at North Tecolote Shores new playground opening

Hello friends,

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Marcella Bothwell and I’m President of the Pacific Beach Town Council and a Founding Board Member of the San Diego Parks Foundation.  I am so pleased to be here.   While this playground is technically in a regional park, it is really our home’s community park. 

Community parks are the prime focus of the San Diego Parks Foundation. We have a tag line: City Parks – “Where San Diegans Play….”

Why is “play” so important for children? For all of us?  Isn’t play frivolous? Well yes if you don’t mean inconsequential but you do mean lighthearted, silly, and with laughter.  As a physician, I must quote the American Academy of Pediatrics which says “play” is essential to a child’s development. Play contributes to cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children.

But I believe that “play” also fosters independence, yet cooperation.

“Play” fosters effective communication yet also conflict resolution,

and yes, “Play” even fosters teamwork.

Since the pandemic, we all need a little more “play”! 

I want to thank Mayor Gloria for making “play” a priority with the “Come Play Outside” initiative and giving me a moment, to share in this wonderful new playground opening.