Reflecting on Rough and Tumble Play

In an article that forms the basis for a new Exchange Reflections, teacher and author Nick Terrones addresses an important and sometimes controversial subject. He explains how a presentation on the benefits of educator support of children’s rough and tumble play (given during a World Forum on Early Care and Education), led to an interaction with a participant from Canada who expressed concerns about whether children might be receiving messages condoning aggression or even violent behavior.

Nick writes what a wonderful opportunity the subsequent discussions with that colleague turned out to be. He explains;

“His concern and perspective opened the opportunity for us to have a conversation about how my Image of the Child played a crucial role in these interactions. My belief is that all children of any gender—including and most certainly toddlers—are competent and capable; they carry a tremendous capacity for the potential to be resilient, powerful and brave, and these qualities will only grow as far and as much as we adults allow. What can appear as out of control, chaotic, or even violent behavior that seems to condone a lack of respect for others, I see as an opportunity for practicing life skills such as empathy, courage and resilience, as well as learning how and when to slow oneself down.

Even in rough-and-tumble play, children will pick up on adult biases about who gets to be rough and powerful, who is able to do so and who isn’t. Children are given these seeds from society and through their lives these seeds are nurtured and cultivated into dispositions that later affect how they perceive and treat one another.”

With this newest Exchange Reflections we are offering an opportunity for rich discussions on a deep and meaningful topic. Enjoy creative conversations with colleagues or college students. Or, simply use this new Reflections as a personal opportunity for self-reflection.

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