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Understanding Schemas in Early Childhood Play

Written by Clair Wain, Early Years Coordinator at SCIS Hongqiao

Have you ever wondered why your young child repeats certain actions or seems endlessly fascinated with specific activities? Children are constantly on the move, turning anything they encounter into a game. From throwing toys to filling bags or boxes, lining up objects, or knocking down towers, these repeated behaviors are not random—they are a key part of how children learn and explore the world. These patterns of behavior are called Schemas

 

What are Schemas? 

Schemas are patterns of repeatable behavior that appear in young children's play. They represent how a child’s mind is processing and making sense of their surroundings. For example, a child might enjoy repeatedly dropping or throwing things, filling containers, or drawing a picture only to scribble over it completely. These actions are not just playful activities; they are indicators of how children are exploring and experimenting with their environment.

Why are Schemas Important? 

Understanding schemas can help us make sense of some puzzling behaviors in young children. You might notice that your child is more interested in playing with the box a toy came in rather than the toy itself. Or perhaps they enjoy wrapping things up in blankets or paper. These behaviors can be linked to schemas such as the transporting schema (where children enjoy moving objects) or the enveloping schema (where they enjoy covering or wrapping items). By recognizing these patterns, parents and caregivers can better support children's natural interests and learning processes. 

 

How Do Schemas Support Learning? 

Schemas provide insight into a child’s cognitive development. When a child engages in repeated behaviors, they are refining their understanding of concepts such as spatial awareness, problem-solving, and even cause-and-effect relationships. For example, a child who is often seen transporting objects might be working on understanding movement, balance, and organization. Offering them toys like wheeled vehicles or opportunities to carry objects can enrich their play and learning experiences. 

 

Supporting Your Child’s Schema 

Recognizing your child's schema allows you to tailor activities to their interests. If you notice your child enjoys enveloping (covering things), you could introduce activities involving fabric, blankets, or wrapping materials. These activities will engage them creatively while also developing their fine motor skills. 

By being mindful of schemas, parents can provide opportunities that nurture a child’s development, making learning more meaningful and enjoyable. Rather than seeing repetitive behaviors as disruptive, recognizing them as part of a child’s learning process creates a supportive environment where children can thrive. 

Understanding your child’s schemas is essential for nurturing their development. By observing their repeated behaviors, you can design activities that not only capture their interests but also enrich their learning experiences.

 

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