This past Friday I observed the students play at Eisenhower Elementary. This particular day the students were full of energy and excitement because it was their last day of school before spring break. However, the weather was a little chilly compared to the temperatures the students played in earlier in the week. Again, the group I observe are boys and girls, predominantly hispanic, second through fifth graders. A young fourth grade Hmong boy who is typically extremely outgoing and very engaged during this free time was strolling around during the beginning of play time by himself. Hi is always very compliant and deemed as very intelligent. He usually responds well to me and seems to be most close with me compared to the other staff members. He approached me and explained to me that he was really sad today because his girlfriend was moving away during the break. He was seriously bummed and I have never ever seen him this way before. He is always upbeat and gets along with everyone. He is very athletic and gets along with all the boys as well as the girls. It was just interesting how he expressed to me why he was feeling so sad but then shortly after we had this discussion he began to play basketball with the a bunch of kids. It made me think of how he was handling his emotions. Considering the research we have been exposed to and the how it stated that play can be a way which children handle and cope with their various emotions. It was extremely interesting to see a child so emotionally distraught and then shortly thereafter they are engaged in a game of basketball. It was neat to so research proven right before my eyes! In addition, some students that are usually very playful shied away from playing on this particular day because of the weather. It was a bit rainy out but nothing serious and a boy that generally plays the entire free time did not want anything to do with going outside. It was weird how he was so negative about going outside and would rather sit in the cafeteria that participate in play. Overall, another great experience that I have applied my materials to.