19 Feb, 2021
Schemas are patterns of repeated behavior that allow children to develop an understanding of the world around them through play and exploration. They are mental models or processes that we create by trial and error through experiences. Children demonstrate how we build schemas out of concepts. You can easily notice these patterns of behavior: banging, pulling, pushing, throwing, connecting, and spinning are all examples of schema play. By understanding schemas and observing children, parents and teachers can determine what schema(s) they are exploring and provide safe materials and experiences to support these explorations! The main types of schemas are: Connecting Orientation Transporting Trajectory Positioning Enveloping Enclosing Rotation Here's a link to a post that gives more detail about schemas and ways to support them in your child's play: https://www.onehundredtoys.com/blogs/news/understanding-schema-play-in-toddlers#orientation At Carousel of Learning, we know that following the child's interests, observing, and supporting their play is the best way for children to learn!