Psychology of play: what does you child like to play?

[Emma4068]

I am a 18 year old student who really needs your help. I am writing a assignment on the psychology of play and am attempting to evaluate different theories and approaches to play in the early years. I am interested in what you all think, the foot soilders as it were, those who observe children at play every day.

What does your child like to play ?
Does your child like role play/play pretend? If so what?
Do you think there are enough opportunities for children to play in this way?
Theory has it that it is through role play that children learn and develop, from observing your child would you agree?
Thanks mums (smile)

Read Zone of Proximal development or Whatever its called. Vygotsky. Theory is that the repetition in play activities is building competency and each time a child plays (certain types of play) he is pushing his development. For example, watch achild on a swing, at first he is getting used to the motion, assimilating the motion learning how to balance, then the leg movement, etc. It's not long until he is totally competent and masters swinging.