The Makings Of A Great Childhood
I couldn’t have been older than seven, maybe eight years old. It was the summer holidays, and not yet time for our annual trip ‘abroad’. The days were long, and had to be filled by imagination and wonder. The luxury of iPads and Apple TVs was still about 30 years off at that point, and children still had to be entertained. JBC (the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation – then the only television station) would sign on at 4p.m., so between waking up, and that heavenly hour when we got to watch Ruff n Ready and Batfink, my sisters, friends and I did just about everything we could to fill that gap. .
by Michelle Gordon • Photography: Dwayne Watkins Props: Jeaneane Swaby • Laila's Tank Top & Tutu: Savannah's Garden
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f nothing else, we were creative. We had to be, and I’m glad we were. They say imagination fosters learning, but I believe it fosters a whole lot more than that. These were the days of childhood past where friendships were formed, characters were built, and memories that last were made. From sun up until sundown, imagination, wit and creativity occupied our days. I’d say the iPad generation has nothing on us! If we really think about it, childhood is the time in life, where happiness should be the order of the day - everyday. The only thing that should bring a tear or two, should be the occasional cut and scrape. That’s it. There’ll be plenty of time for work, worry and responsibility - later. So for now, let’s pack every ounce of pure, unadulterated happiness into the lives and memories of our children. We have but one chance, let’s make it count! So what makes an amazing childhood?
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