Using the mosaic approach to inform action research: implementation of playscape features in an urban family child care program
Date
2016
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
A playscape is a nature-based outdoor environment designed for children's open-ended play and learning. It is an important context to understand as play in natural outdoor settings contributes to children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. This action research study focused on gathering the perspectives on outdoor play experiences with school-age children living below Federal Poverty Limits who were enrolled in an urban family child care home before and after playscape features (loose parts, natural items, and other open-ended materials) were added to the family child care outdoor space. Challenges in providing outdoor play from the perspective of the family child care provider are explored throughout the action research process. Opportunities for outdoor play increased after adding playscape features to the child care space. Perspectives of outdoor play were gathered using drawings, child-led photography, and discussions. These children considered various outdoor environments and experiences, and their perspectives on outdoor play expanded from play with manufactured, gross motor equipment found on traditional playgrounds to play that included dramatic play, experimental play, and engagement with natural loose parts.