Toddlers can engage in complex games as they get to know each other over time
Toddlers can engage in complex games as they get to know each other over time
Toddlers can engage in complex games as they get to know each other over time
By Zhangjing Luo, Hildy Ross, Michal Perlman, Nina Howe
May 08, 2023
Summary
Each pair met for 18 different 45-minute play dates over a four-month period, so each child had a total of 36 play dates.
We observed how very young children developed peer relationships, and how they are capable of engaging in complex games as they get to know a peer over time.
The dataset is complex to analyze because each child had two play partners, and because the play took place over time.
A third study on social pretend play, which is currently in press, indicated that young children are capable of engaging in social pretend play - a form of complex interaction - with peers.
Successful initiations of pretend play increased faster as children got to know one another, towards later play dates.
Changes in children's interactions as they get to know one another are complex.
If a child doesn't know how to initiate interactions with a peer, adults may model or encourage the child to invite the peer to play games by sharing toys.
Reference
Luo , Z., Ross, H., Perlman, M., Howe, N. (2023, May 8). Toddlers can engage in complex games as they get to know each other over time. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/toddlers-can-engage-in-complex-games-as-they-get-to-know-each-other-over-time-203825