Schematic Play

Have you ever noticed a child lining things up in a row, sorting toys by colour, or carrying things from one place to another? It is not unusual to see repeated patterns of action in toddlers’ play. These repeated patterns of actions, or play schema, help children learn about and understand the world around them. Play schema are characterised by involvement (being fully absorbed, focused and showing enjoyment), flow (deep engagement and immersion), and persistence (repeatedly returning to the same patterns of action).

Some common schema include: 

• Trajectory – A fascination with movement, often explored through the throwing or propelling of objects.  
• Rotation and Circularity – A captivation with spinning, rolling, twisting, and rotating objects.  
• Transporting – Moving objects from one place to another, often using bags or toy vehicles.  
• Enveloping – Enjoying covering items completely or being covered or hidden oneself.  
• Enclosing – Surrounding objects by building fences, walls, or barriers.  
• Positioning or Ordering – Arranging items in specific ways or patterns, often lining them up neatly.  
• Connecting – Joining, sticking, or tying objects together.  
• Disconnecting – Taking pleasure in knocking things down or smashing them apart.

Schematic behaviour can show itself in many, many different ways. There is no single behaviour for each schema, because every child is unique. Children can be engaged with more than one schema at a time, or tend to favour multiple schemas in their free play. But it's not necessarily children's repeated behaviour that's so important — it's what they're exploring through that behaviour.

All play schemas occur naturally, so it’s not something we need to teach children. But, when we understand the characteristics of different play schemas, we can then provide opportunities for children to play in ways that extend their learning.

“It’s not just about finding out what they’re interested in – it’s about asking yourself why they’re interested in it in the first place.”

https://tewhariki.tahurangi.education.govt.nz/infant-and-toddler-play/