Exploring, Learning, Belonging, or Engaging in Frivolous Fun? Examining Western Canadian Parents' Perceptions of Play

• In Event: Conceptions of Play in Early Childhood Classrooms

Abstract

Parental beliefs about the role of play in learning and development vary widely and have been: found to be related to parents’ cultural and socioeconomic background and have a reciprocal effect on children’s play behaviour in terms of frequency and choice of play forms and themes; and examined within various demographics (e.g., American and Asian populations). However, little is known about beliefs of children’s play the diverse group of parents residing in Western Canada possess. This is of particular concern when play-based learning/interventions are recommended for use by parents/guardians, educators, and professionals supporting children’s learning/development. The overall purpose of this study was to explore the cultural perspectives and developmental assumptions of play among Western Canadian parents.

Authors

• Laureen J. McIntyre, University of Saskatchewan

• Laurie-Ann M. Hellsten, University of Saskatchewan

• Neda Moslemi, University of Saskatchewan

• Katherine Gibb, University of Saskatchewan