Work

Risky Play for Children Birth to 3 Years in Early Childhood Education Services: A Study of Educators’ Perspectives

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Early childhood education (ECE) is an ideal environment to promote risky play. To date, few studies have explored ECE educators’ perceptions of risky play for children birth to 3 years. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore educators’ perceptions of risky play in ECE for children birth to 3 years. Eight participants from 7 different ECE services across New South Wales and the Northern Territory, Australia, participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted via Zoom, using a predetermined script. Data were analysed using deductive thematic analysis and guided by Social Ecological Theory. Microsystem factors (e.g., the ECE setting, educators’ knowledge, attitude and experience) and mesosystem factors (e.g., relationships between educators, children and families) were the main factors identified as being important. This study highlights important factors in risky play for children birth to 3 years.

Source: Australasian Journal of Early Childhood

DOI: 10.1177/18369391251349552

Authors: Naomi Bowden, Rachel Jones, Karen Tonge

Institution: University of Wollongong

Language: English

Topic: Early Childhood Education and Development

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650