Killing Elsa and bubble parties: Enduring lessons about navigating crisis through play

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 9:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Play and Learning

Abstract

Drawing on interviews with early childhood educators, this study offers insights into how young children processed uncertainty and made sense of complex concepts through play related to COVID-19 crisis. Children’s play mirrored the realities of the pandemic, engaging with themes such as death, illness, vaccination, temperature checks, and evolving social norms. Play served as a means for children to explore and understand their experiences and circumstances. Educators in this study supported the process through guided, developmentally appropriate conversations that addressed, rather than avoided, difficult topics, and fostered emotional regulation. The study shares enduring lessons on the importance of honoring children’s play and prioritizing trauma-informed, and responsive approaches to early childhood education in times of stability and crisis alike.

Authors

• Minsun Shin, Montclair State University

• Victoria I. Puig, Montclair State University