Abstract

Play, especially guided play, has the potential to support learning and development. Parents can become meaningful partners and facilitators of these enriching play experiences. Given the importance of fostering play throughout development and the need for parents to feel confident engaging in play with their children during middle childhood, this study surveyed parents to better understand the attitudes, practices, and perceived competencies regarding play (and guided play in particular) of parents with children aged 6-12. The results of the survey could be used to develop a parent workshop curriculum or education materials featuring play topics and strategies that align with evidence-based best practices. The sample for this study was comprised of 50 parents who consented and completed the survey on Qualtrics. Results indicate that parents in this sample generally feel satisfied and confident engaging in play with their children, with some room for improvement. Parents also believe that play facilitates learning and skill development which was associated with higher confidence and satisfaction in play. Additionally, parents frequently indicated that education and experience foster confidence. Results also demonstrate that parents’ confidence decreases as their child’s age increases. Taken together, parents’ responses lend support to the utility of play interventions and education across the developmental span, including middle childhood, with a focus on guiding and facilitating play.

First Advisor

Brenna Hassinger-Das

Document Type

ETD

Date of Award

6-29-2024

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