In simplifying schedules, I suggest to parents that they create a visual image of their child in deep, creative play. Very often this image will have something to do with art or nature. When is your child completely focused? When do you and their larger surroundings disappear, as their attention is completely drawn to what they’re doing? This time is not more or less important than leisure and activity; they are all interdependent. I emphasize it, though, because sometimes as parents, by not recognizing it, we haul our children right out of it.
