The Importance of Play

Question 1

Parten 1932- Who is she? What was her study?

Answer 1

Her study suggested that when children engaged in active playtime, they learned how to interact with other children, cooperate, share and make friends. Parten stated that children’s play changed as they developed; going through 6 stages that (not always) corresponded to children’s ages

Question 2

Solitary play

Answer 2

0-2 years old. Children often play alone and uninterested/unaware of what those are doing around them. Important stage as it teaches children how to entertain themselves

Question 3

Onlooker play

Answer 3

2-2.5 years old. When a child observes other playing but does not join the play. They will engage in other forms of social interactions e.g., conversations to learn more about the game/play

Question 4

Parallel play

Answer 4

2.5-3 years old. Child begins to play side-by-side with other children without any interaction, but still paying attention to each other. This is the beginning of the desire to play with other children

Question 5

Associative play

Answer 5

3.5-4.5 years old. Child becomes more interested in other children rather than toys. Begin interacting more with the other child they’re playin with - questions, talking about the toy, what they’re making etc. This is the beginning of understanding how to get along with others

Question 6

Cooperative play

Answer 6

4-6 years old. Child begins socializing and begin to share ideas and toys as well as establish rules/guidelines. This is where a child learns and practices social skills e.g., cooperating, being flexible, taking turns, and solving problems