AN INVESTIGATION OF CURRENT ATTITUDES TOWARDS CHILDHOOD PLAY

Abstract

This study investigates current attitudes toward structured and unstructured childhood play and possible related factors. The research was guided by seven questions regarding the extent to which individuals value structured and unstructured play, both overall and in relation to other aspects of development. Two hundred and seventy-nine individuals of varying gender, age, race/ethnicity, education level, parental status, and occupation participated in this study by answering questions in an online survey. Based on the results of a literature review, individuals were expected to value structured play more than unstructured play. Parental status, occupation, and education level were also expected to influence the results. In looking at the value that participants placed upon play, significant differences were found regarding structured and unstructured play. Overall, the data indicated that the participants still value play although they generally value unstructured play more than structured play. The results of this study are encouraging as they indicate that unstructured play is still appreciated as an important part of children’s development.