Abstract ▼ AI-Helper

This study compared mother-toddler physical interaction by play type (traditional play, free play, block play), and child's sex and age. Subjects were 10 boys and 10 girls ranging in age from 25- to 36-months and their mothers. An observer videotaped the children and their mothers at play in their h...

This study compared mother-toddler physical interaction by play type (traditional play, free play, block play), and child's sex and age. Subjects were 10 boys and 10 girls ranging in age from 25- to 36-months and their mothers. An observer videotaped the children and their mothers at play in their homes. Results showed that (1) mothers' physical interaction was not distinguished by play type or by child's sex or age. (2) Mothers expressed more positive emotion in traditional than in block play. (3) Younger children's play interactions were more nonverbal. (4) Children expressed more positive emotions in traditional play. This study provides groundwork for mother-toddler traditional play programs with potential for improving positive expression of emotion and attachment.

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