[Dr. Eduard Lindeman]
This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.
Fun is important and necessary! Dr. Eduard Lindeman, professor of sociology at the School of Social Work, New York University.
How has Dr. Lindeman given so much time to fun as an adult? In an industrial age, it is important to get satisfaction out of life one used to get out of work: a farmer works hard from dawn to dusk, but he sees the fruits of his own labor, while a city man has a monotonous grind day after day. Mothers, too. They are they ones who need a change, to play and have fun.
Why should parents make consistent, orderly plans for recreation? Remember that most days during the summer, fathers are at work. Dr. Lindeman always includes fathers in his suggestions, though. A good game they play at home -- oh, a little of the philosophy of the recreation, rather than practical suggestions. Children, especially in the city, have little outlet for their energy. If children use their energy in good ways, they won't in good ways: they won't shoot grandma.
An outlet for children energy, and parents learn more about their children and other people's children, make comparisons and come to see that all children are pretty much alike. Recreation is a fundamental educative force; every large city should have a recreation commission.
Children and adults live in different worlds. When they play together, though, the child gets an initiation in to that world. Parents learn plenty from their children.
Parents should combine with other families and children.
Community service should be part of the fun.
Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection
WNYC archives id: 69664
Municipal archives id: LT856
