Two weeks had passed since the Playwork Campference 2019 had concluded. I was surrounded by snotty tissues. No, I wasn’t emotional that it had all come to an end. This was just my post-project cold. It was one of the worst I’d had in a while, which hinted at the scale of this project.
It was indeed significant. With 101 people who had joined us at this 4-day, 3-night event from nine different countries, this was one of the most massive projects I had ever been a part of.
As I was forced to slow down, I reflected on the event and wanted to take this opportunity to express my gratitude on various fronts.
First, I would like to thank Jill of Bayou City Play and my wonderful work partner, Morgan. They were the organised and composed part of the Campference 2019 Team, and I appreciated their strength throughout the event planning. They trusted me with paperwork, provided reassurance during stressful moments, and made the process enjoyable. I look forward to future collaborations with them.
Moving on to the event reflections, I want to express my gratitude to The Parish School, especially Nancy Bewley, and Adventure Play at The Parish School, particularly Wes. They generously opened their site to us for four days, allowing us to explore their premises, use their kitchens, and run our workshops. Their support was indispensable in making this event possible.Moving on to the event reflections, I want to express my gratitude to The Parish School, especially Nancy Bewley, and Adventure Play at The Parish School, particularly Wes. They generously opened their site to us for four days, allowing us to explore their premises, use their kitchens, and run our workshops. Their support was indispensable in making this event possible.
Expressing more gratitude
I’d also like to thank all the volunteers who dedicated their time to Campference. From our keynotes, Jill and Ali. They provided their constant and knowledgeable presence, to every presenter, I’m grateful for your patience and willingness to share your wisdom and stories.
A big thank you to those who took on various responsibilities, prepared food, engaged with children, and helped ensure parents could participate. Your playwork skills were invaluable during this time.
Your adaptability and focus on children’s best interests during scheduling chaos were greatly appreciated. I’m also thankful for those who pitched in at a moment’s notice, located lost items, and offered advice.
Thanks to those who tackled less glamorous tasks like cleaning toilets and disposing of recycling. A special mention to the person who helped us with an unexpected situation – you know who you are, and you’re awesome. You all are awesome, and I thank you.
While I may be rambling with these event reflections, I believe it’s important to continue this train of thought. Despite my fuzzy-headedness from this dreadful cold, my heart remains full.
I want to extend my gratitude to the 88 adults and 13 children who attended this 4-day, 3-night event. Thank you for trusting us to create a schedule that interested you and for traveling to Houston from around the world. Your belief in our promises regarding accommodation, food, and workshops was vital to the success of Campference 2019.
Reflecting on collaborations
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to Playwork. This field embraces diversity and playfulness, and many of us have chosen to identify with it. I’m grateful to playwork for bringing 101 people together on an unusual February day in Houston. Playwork represents our passion for children’s play advocacy, love for children’s rights, and the fire in our bellies to do more for children and humanity. It’s through playwork that we discuss our practices, challenges, and share our stories. We’ll continue to work, connect like-minded individuals, and engage in social media. Despite the hard work, we’re thankful that this field exists, and we’re committed to its growth.
Here we all are, delegates from Campference 2019 on Adventure Play at The Parish School.
Playwork Campference 2019 was a spectacular event. If you want to be part of the next Playwork Campference or want to learn more about this one, throw us an email, or get in touch using Facebook or Twitter. We’re looking forward to even more amazing playwork moments.
By Zan