Best Way to Play? Observing Intergenerational Dynamics in Children Museum Engagement

Authors: Eliora Glickman, Myla Tannenbaum, Cameron Huchro

Field of Study: Philosophy, Politics and Law

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Amber Simpson

Easel: 44

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: How do adults shape the way children play in informal learning environments? This study examines intergenerational interactions at a local family-oriented children’s museum. The researchers explored how these relationships impacted a child's engagement when participating in role-play based learning. Over a two-week period, researchers conducted six rounds of observations, documenting how parental guidance, ranging from direct activity suggestions to the promotion of independent play, affected children’s navigation of exhibits. Early findings indicate that children frequently alternate between methods of play depending on more than just adult involvement, with other factors including the involvement of siblings/friends and the age of the child. Given the demographic diversity of visitors and the variety of interaction styles observed, these results suggest that the museum environment successfully supports a broad spectrum of play experiences.