Teacher Claire's Sing and Play Studio

What are play schemas? 

Play schemas are repeated patterns of behavior all young children do naturally.

They are:

Trajectory Schema: This involves movement through space. Children who are exploring this schema might throw objects, drop things, or push and pull toys. They’re interested in how things move and travel.

Rotation Schema: This schema is about spinning and turning. Kids may enjoy twirling around, spinning objects, or rotating toys. It’s their way of understanding how rotation works and how it affects their surroundings.

Position Schema: This schema focuses on the placement and arrangement of objects. Children might enjoy stacking blocks, fitting shapes into specific slots, or organizing items in certain ways. They are learning about spatial relationships and order.

Transporting Schema: In this schema, children are interested in moving objects from one place to another. This can involve filling and emptying containers, carrying toys, or moving objects around. It’s about understanding the concept of movement and distance.

Enclosure Schema: This involves creating boundaries or spaces. Children might build forts, make circles, or construct enclosed areas with toys. They are exploring the idea of containment and separation.

Connection Schema: This schema is about linking objects together. Kids might connect blocks, link chains, or build structures. They’re interested in how things can be combined to create something new.

Transformational Schema: This schema focuses on changing objects or materials. Children might enjoy mixing ingredients, modifying shapes, or altering their play environment. They’re exploring how transformation affects objects and their properties.

Enveloping Schema: Focuses on wrapping, covering, or enclosing. Children might wrap toys in cloth, cover themselves with blankets, or use materials to hide and reveal objects. This schema helps them explore concepts of coverage, protection, and concealment.

Why are they important?

Schemas promote these skills:

• Cause and effect
• Spatial awareness 
• Motor coordination
• Problem solving
• Persistence
• Creativity
• Language and social interaction
• Mathematical thinking 
• Critical thinking