PRESENTATION OUTLINE
The development of courage and independence are what set preschoolers, ages three to six years of age, apart from other age groups.
As described in Bee and Boyd (2004), the child during this stage faces the complexities of planning and developing a sense of judgment.
During this stage, the child learns to take initiative and prepare for leadership and goal achievement roles.
Activities sought out by a child in this stage may include risk-taking behaviors, such as crossing a street alone or riding a bike without a helmet; both these examples involve self-limits
Within instances requiring initiative, the child may also develop negative behaviors. These behaviors are a result of the child developing a sense of frustration for not being able to achieve a goal as planned and may engage in behaviors that seem aggressive, ruthless, and overly assertive to parents.
Aggressive behaviors, such as throwing objects, hitting, or yelling, are examples of observable behaviors during this stage.
Preschoolers are increasingly able to accomplish tasks on their own, and with this growing independence comes many choices about activities to be pursued. Sometimes children take on projects they can readily accomplish, but at other times they undertake projects that are beyond their capabilities or that interfere with other people's plans and activities.
If parents and preschool teachers encourage and support children's efforts, while also helping them make realistic and appropriate choices, children develop initiative- independence in planning and undertaking activities.
But if, instead, adults discourage the pursuit of independent activities or dismiss them as silly and bothersome, children develop guilt about their needs and desires.
Justify the need for children to have play opportunities that include imagination and the use of fantasy.
How do these opportunties support children's ability to develop initative?
What specific activities would support this type of play and what accommodations would you make for a child who has special needs?
