Cultural Diversity & Play

Question 1

Is play universal?

Answer 1

Play is a social phenomena of, not just humans, but all animals. Animals have been playing before culture became to exist (Huizinga). It is believed that play has developmental benefits and is key to a species survial:

• Byers- physical training and co-ordination- Gregg: exercise play is used to provide physical benefits when there is excess energy/food (Linked to Curtis, 1916 surplus energy theory).
• Symon- develops competitive skills- Greggs: parents play with their young to teach them how to hunt and protect themselves from predators
• Einon et al- play deprivation may result in repressed emotions, aggression and a gradual loss of all electrical activity in the brain which may effect cognitive function (study on rats)
• Poirer & Smith- socialisation- children learn their role in society, construct their identity and form a communication system through play

Question 2

Edwards (2000)

Answer 2

Work and play help children build a repertoire of skills and schemes which they use to exercise and extend their knowledge of the environment.

Cultural norms and opportunities determine the degree to which play is stimulated by their physical and social environments

Question 3

John & Beatrice Whiting (began in 1954)- 6 Country study (India, Okinawa, USA, Philippines, Mexico and Kenya)

Answer 3

1) Kenya: Children are absorbed into the work of their mothers (generally agricultural work) in which they combine work and play in mixed aged groups. Neither parents stimulates or facilitates play and play is discouraged outside the home to reduce aggression with neighbours.
2) Mexico: Children run errands for the parents ad in-between find time to play. They use natural materials to construct toys. Parents do not encourage play but are tolerant and non critical.
3) India: Rowdy play is discouraged in the crowed courtyards, instead idle socialisation is encouraged. Mother’s do not encourage play- are scolding and reprimanding.

Question 4

Views on imaginative play

Answer 4

Black & minority ethnic families do no see place for play in schools. Schools are a place for ‘hard working’ and play is not included in this- they do not see the educational benefits of such activity.

Imaginative play is considered inappropriate in societies where adults are concerned with children rehearsing life-roles. eg.

1) Brooker (2002)- Bangladeshi children adapted to the home corner but did not participate in imaginative play including monsters, witches etc.
2) Katz (2004)- Sudanese children only played once their daily chores had been carried out. Play was mini enactment of real life and family struggles (social and economic situation constrains children’s play)

Question 5

Toys

Answer 5

Toys are a central feature to play and identity. It is evidenced across the globe that children curate and collect precious toys and objects, but these objects vary across cultures (Gabriele Galimberti- toy stories, photography series).