The play of primary age children

This chapter describes the play of primary-age children, from 6 to 8 years. The organized, planful, collaborative, and realistic play of primary children is profiled. A growing interest in games with rules, competition, and winning and losing is discussed. The chapter reviews how increased motor abilities and a desire to excel at these leads to more elaborate playground play, organized sports, and rough-and-tumble play of children at this age. Construction play is described, in which children build with blocks and other materials to accurately represent real life. Play with technology is also examined. Ways that primary classrooms can be designed to enhance play, including the creation of play centers, are presented. Scheduling more time for self-directed free play is emphasized. A multitiered model to support play is suggested for children with disabilities. Descriptions are presented of Tier I play support, which includes basic, high-quality play opportunities; Tier II support, which provides more guidance for those with significant needs; and Tier III interventions for those with identified disabilities. The chapter discusses ways in which the play of boys and girls and those of diverse cultural backgrounds vary, and why play may be an ideal setting for promoting children’s acceptance of and friendships with other-culture or opposite-gender peers.