Case Analysis
In this case, we are going to be looking at a game known as What is my bride like? This is a game that involves children between the ages of 9 – 12 years. Ten to thirty children can take part in this game. It is a game which can take place at home or school. During play, the groom is usually asked to leave the venue or the room where the play activity is taking place. During this time, the other players choose one object which is located in the room and they allow the groom to return into the room. The groom asks the players, that is, one at a time the qualities of the bride. This is supposed to go on until the groom finds his bride. The second game which we can look at is Al Mazool this is a game whereby everyone gets a letter to spell out the name of an object in the room or within the vicinity. This is an interesting game since it brings to the fore the ability of the participants to spell and enact those values which they have acquired (Orlick, 2006). During this game, the children can explore their creative and innovative states thus they can be able maximize those aspects which they need to build on.
Culture and leisure
Culture exists in time and space coordinates. In essence, leisure is usually defined by culture. This is because leisure is usually defined within the cultural orientations of a given people. It is worth mentioning the fact that culture is the total of a people’s way of life. Regional culture is formed within a certain geographic region in the lifestyle over a long period. It normally refers to the integration of the behaving and thinking mode of the specific group of people in a certain space scope. I have had an opportunity to belong to an African cultural orientation. In this case, the African culture favors a communal aspect. Essentially, within the African culture leisure is seen as a way of bringing people together especially as a form of celebrating a given feat. On the other hand, western games are more individual. This has been largely caused by the technological advancements which have brought to the fore toys that favor individualism. Thus, in both cases, what stands out is the fact that cultural orientations have a major impact on the types of games that one engages in.
Reasons for participating in leisure
There are several reasons as to why one participates in leisure. These reasons can be classified as intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic factors that have triggered me to take in leisure include the aspect of having fun. In this case, one can derive enjoyment during free time (LeFevre, 2002). Secondly, I can enhance certain qualities as a person. For example, in outdoor games, my interpersonal skills are developed as I take part in active leisure. Lastly, in some forms of passive leisure like reading books, I can get to learn more about what is going on around my environment. Some of the extrinsic factors which have motivated me to take part in leisure activities are the rewards that are associated with leisure. For instance, when one is hanging out with friends, one is appreciated by friends. Secondly, leisure time is usually provided for by the schedule (LeFevre, 2002). And lastly, it is a form of releasing anxiety which well up during daily activities.
Conclusion
Play and games form an important aspect of human well being. This is because it enables a person to be able to appreciate the on-goings in life. Without leisure, life would be too serious. It is also important to note that different cultures have got different descriptions of leisure therefore, the moment we interact through leisure we can appreciate the different roles which different cultures play in life.
References
LeFevre, D. N. (2002). Best New Games. New York: Human Kinetics.
Orlick, T. (2006). Cooperative Games And Sports:Joyful Activities For Everyone. New York: Human Kinetics.