Embracing Play Schemas for Powerful Early Learning

Play Move Improve

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2y ago 16:31

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Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Managing Play Schemas in Early Childhood Settings

## Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth discusses the importance of play schemas in early childhood development and offers strategies for educators and parents to manage and support these behaviors in various settings.

## Key Points

1. Play schemas are repetitive behaviors that help children explore and understand their world.

2. Common play schemas include trajectory (throwing) and transporting (moving objects).

3. These behaviors can be challenging for educators and parents but are crucial for development.

4. There's an increase in play schema behaviors in older age groups (3-6 years) than previously observed.

5. Strategies can be implemented to support play schemas while managing the learning environment.

## Understanding Play Schemas

- Play schemas are developmental phases children go through to explore their world

- Examples: transporting objects, throwing (trajectory), dumping

- These behaviors help children understand cause and effect, object permanence, and their impact on the environment

## Challenges in Educational Settings

- Increased occurrence of play schema behaviors in 3-6 year age group

- Difficulty in managing mixed developmental levels in one setting

- Potential disruption to structured activities or other children's play

## Strategies for Supporting Play Schemas

1. **Object Permanence Activities**

- Hide objects under cups for children to find

- Bury toys in sandpit for discovery

2. **Sensory Exploration**

- Provide opportunities for paint mixing and texture exploration

- Create designated areas for messy play

3. **Structured vs. Open-Ended Play Spaces**

- Set up separate areas for structured activities and free exploration

- Use outdoor spaces for messier, more physical play

4. **Extending Play Behaviors**

- Engage children in their current play level and gradually introduce new concepts

- Use children's interests to guide activities

5. **Environment Modification**

- Adjust play spaces to accommodate different developmental needs

- Create safe areas for more physical play schemas

## Tips for Educators and Parents

- Focus on improving one play skill at a time

- Understand that repetitive behaviors are part of learning

- Provide a variety of sensory experiences

- Be patient and remember that the brain will learn with repeated exposure

## About the Host

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She combines her professional expertise with personal experiences to provide valuable insights into child development and play.

## Call to Action

- Share your experiences or questions in the comments

- Reach out for more ideas and support

- Join our free online community for ongoing discussions and resources

## Connect with Play Move Improve

- Website: playmoveimprove.com.au

- Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: @playmoveimprove

Remember, play schemas are a crucial part of child development. With understanding and the right strategies, we can support children through these important stages while managing the challenges they may present in educational settings.

66 episodes

#Podcasting Education #Robyn Papworth