This stage of physical and psychosocial development is in full swing. You begin to see the soccer mom’s and the football dad’s emerging from the homes that once laid silent on the weekends with their new baby. At this stage physical development is in full swing becoming more skillful and coordinated with movement. Also physical play and the teams that children are now becoming a part of have a profound affect on their psychosocial development. Sports becomes a social thing and skill ability is a big part of acceptance within this arena. This arena could be the musical stage, the academic team, or any social play group a child is part of.
Activity Instructions:
Part 1:
For this activity you will need to gather a group of friends and family, I would say 5 or more. You will need to decide what outdoor game you are going to play with this group of friends (tug-o-war, hide and seek, tag, dodge ball, kick ball, four square, etc.). Find a place to play the game with your group. Play the game for 20-30 minuets minimum. After the game with your group discuss the game and how it played out. Ask them questions to think about such as, what skills did you use during the game, what thinking did you do during the game, did you have to problem solve anything, what social skills did they engage in when playing the game, what emotions did they feel during the game, of the emotions what events where happening in the game during that time you felt those feelings, and any other questions you come up with after your reading and playing the game with your group.
Part 2:
When you complete the first part you then need to do a 2-3 page reflective summary of the experience reflecting back on the game, discussions and readings. Discuss how play is developmentally appropriate and can support the development of this age group referencing readings from your text.
To be successful on this assignment:
- Find a group of friends to play with
- Play an outdoor game and a table top card or board game
- Write up a 2-3 page reflection
