What can educators learn from observing children's interactions during play?

Observing children's interactions during play provides valuable insights into their social skills and communication. As children engage in play, they demonstrate how they interact with peers, share ideas, negotiate roles, and express feelings. These interactions reflect their understanding of social norms, their ability to form relationships, and how they resolve conflicts.

Through observation, educators can identify patterns in behavior, such as collaboration, empathy, and effective communication strategies, all of which are crucial for social development. This understanding allows educators to tailor their approach to better support each child’s development, fostering an environment that enhances social learning and helps children develop essential interpersonal skills.

While observing aspects like rule-following, independence, and toy preferences can provide useful information, the primary focus on social skills and communication during play gives a more holistic view of children's interpersonal development and their ability to connect with others.