I never understood the value of play until I had a child. Two quotes I have seen of late:
“Play is the work of the child.” – Maria Montessori
“Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein
OK, then let ‘er P. L. A. Y! Gosh, I even am getting to see the benies for myself. To see her imagination run wild and to let ME become a kid has just been rewarding beyond measure.
I let her run around and just discover what she wanted to play on.
Of course she must ride the rocking horse…
But wait, there’s a “pool!” Let’s take the baby in there. 
Time for bed, little girl!
Wait, you have to go for a ride first (time in the bed lasted 2 seconds, poor child)
SQUIRREL!…. A train set!
And with all the commotion going on she headed to the magnet thingies whatever they are. They make cool shapes and formations, all magnetized. Who’da thunk!?
All in a day of play. When she gets to play in different environments, home is fresh and new!
PLAY is GOOD!