- Carla: “Yes let’s do it. These ones go here. Let’s add more of these. Here we go.”
Carla and Raven were building in the block area, cooperating on their placement of blocks.
Sarah, who hadn’t joined Sam or the girl’s focus, set up a popsicle stand.
Sarah: “Who wants a popsicle? Do you want a popsicle Sam?
Sam: “No.”
Sarah: “Do you want a popsicle Raven?”
Raven: “No.”
Sarah’s attempt to create a game that others would join was not gathering any interest. Changing her approach, she goes to the platform and builds a very tall tower.
Sarah: "I'm gong to build a tall tower."
Sarah announces this to the group.
Sam: “That’ll be easy.”
Carla: “On no! No more blocks.”
Sarah has attracted the attention of other players. Although probably not her desired outcome……
Carla walks to the platform, and knocks down Sarah's tower.
Flora: “Look at Sarah’s face Carla. How do you think she feels?”
Carla: “Are you angry?” She asks Sarah.
Sarah: “I’m angry. You knocked down my tower. Now you need to help me fix it!”
Carla: “I can do that!”
….Sarah has succeeded in engaging other players in her focus.
Sarah recognizes her opportunity and gets excited: “It’s going to be taller than you! Don’t touch it, but if it falls over we’ll do it all over again.”
Raven joins them: “Look at it balance.”
Sam participates too: “I’m all pooped out. Guys, there’s more of them in here!”
Raven transitions to another game, but is sure to include her new work partner: “We’re so tired of building, now we need a popsicle.”
To Sarah’s delight, she had successfully entered into play with her friends and, changed the game. Sarah shows us another example of children’s capabilities and emotional fortitude. Flora knew not to step in at the first sign of trouble and was confident in the children’s abilities to work it out, and work together.