by Alix Tonsgard
Trains are back at DCM! Open-ended train play presents us with a window into the learning and development that take place during play. Children are learning about sharing, working together, negotiating, and conflict resolution – valuable lessons that help us negotiate the world we live in, as well as problem solving, creativity, imagination, spatial reasoning, fine motor skills, dexterity, and communication skills.
You might think that play is play is play, but there are actually many different types of play, all of which support different aspects of cognitive, social, physical, and academic development. In the Museum’s train exhibit, you will most likely bear witness to all stages and types of play.
Here are a few of the types of play you might expect to see:
The observers – While it may not appear that they are playing at all, this is actually a stage of play that is very important. Support this child by narrating what you see happening and asking them what they see.
The solo players – Those who play alone tend to be more independent. This type of play is also very age appropriate for the younger ones who are still developing communication skills.
The parallel players – These little ones like to play near other children, and while it may seem that they are playing alone, they are often mimicking other children and taking in all that is going on around them.
The collaborators and the directors – As children develop into more social beings, some will want to play with other children and some will want to direct other children. This is where those social-emotional skills are really being put to work.
You play an important part in your child’s learning and development. You can support your child asking questions like “What would happen if…?” or “Where is your train going,” to help get them thinking. The next step is to challenge them to construct a bridge or build a track that uses 20 pieces. If they are not quite there, support them in completing the challenge together.
Alix Tonsgard is an early learning specialist at the DuPage Children’s Museum.
