The role of culture in shaping children's play : memories of a playing girl

Abstract

Culture has had an important role in shaping children's play throughout recorded history. The strategies for play are chosen by the set of customs of the particular society in relation to gender and culture. In societies like India, where gender boundaries are still rigid, children's play is under constant surveillance to comply with the unwritten gender traditions that build barriers to constrain gender expressions. This study aims to discuss how the cultural and societal context and specifically cultural understandings of gender affect children's play in India. By using an autoethnographic method, the study explores the relationship between gender and play in India. The childhood of the author is examined through the theoretical lens of Raewyn Connell's work, to deepen the understanding of the role that gender has in shaping children's play in India. This discussion will clarify the influence that gendering has in creating obstacles to the free expression of boys and girls while playing, from their earliest years. The findings of this study suggest that there are significant gender differences in Indian play settings which further restrict the playing options for children. The findings of this research will be helpful for early childhood educators in broadening their mental horizons and understandings of Indian playing culture.

Date of Award	2018
Original language	English