holding the canvas

One of the most elucidating moments that I experienced while working in hospitals was when I was asked to help a teenage boy paint a picture; a landscape where the sea meets the sky.  Though he was not able to use his hands, his desire to participate, to create, was so strong that he took…

Fun Busyness.

We here at Proponent of Play are looking forward to synthesizing with a number of interesting groups in the upcoming months. POP’s very own Jeff Smithson has been asked to speak at Pediatric Grand Rounds at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center on March 7th.  The focus of the presentation will be on Patient and…

Sidekicks

The University of Massachusetts Sidekicks Program pairs first and second year medical students with pediatric patients. Proponent of Play has had the honor of providing orientation sessions and facilitating workshops on how awareness of body language can enhance the ability to connect with kids.  This inspiring group of people successfully integrates play into their rigorous…

POP meets TEDTalks

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently…

Welcome to POP!

Welcome to Proponent of Play (POP) where we utilize play as a developmental tool to find fun in mindfulness and movement. Learn to think quickly when faced with unpredictable circumstances with our exploratory workshops.  Hospital Rooms, Classrooms & Boardrooms all have procedures, lesson plans & agendas that define what is going to happen, except when…