RECONCEPTUALIZING ROUGH AND TUMBLE PLAY: BAN THE BANNING

Abstract

Rough and tumble (R&T) play is a well-researched form of play fighting that contributes to children’s academic and social success. Some continue to believe it inevitably leads to bullying and aggression, but this chapter makes that case that R&T should be reconceptualized and supported by creating settings that welcome and encourage consenting players’ participation. R&T can be supported by creating an emotionally safe environment where children are empowered to choose whether or not to join in, by the provision of wide-open spaces, adequate time, and adults who will provide a physical and emotional safety net at arm’s length.

Citation

Freeman, N.K. and Brown, M.H. (2004), "RECONCEPTUALIZING ROUGH AND TUMBLE PLAY: BAN THE BANNING", Reifel, S. and Brown, M. (Ed.) Social Contexts of Early Education, and Reconceptualizing Play (II) (Advances in Early Education and Day Care, Vol. 13), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 219-234. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0270-4021(04)13008-5