“How does play decrease egocentric thinking? I read an article recently that dipped into this topic, but am trying to learn more about it for taking care of my niece and nephew.”
When we are born, we don’t have the ability to understand that others may have different feelings, thoughts or perspectives. Children think for example, if they like strawberries, everyone else must like strawberries. This is called egocentric thinking. Children think this way until they are around 6 or 7.
Play helps children develop their emotional, social, and cognitive skills. This is why it is so important that children are allowed to play. Play is not something that children just do. Play has a purpose, and this is why children should be allowed to play.
During play, children have to share with others. They learn about others’ children’s opinions, ideas, and beliefs, and they begin to understand that they are different to their own. They see that others do things in a different way. All of these help them to leave behind their egocentric thinking.
So, the important thing is that you allow your niece and nephew to play. And remember that children benefit especially from unstructured and outdoors play.
I hope this information is helpful. Your niece and nephew are lucky to have an adult as committed as you are!
You may also find these masterclasses useful:
Forest School: Everything You Need to Know
Lots of love,
Ana
