Transitions in children's play: A sequential analysis of states preceding and following social pretense.

Abstract

Kindergarten and Grade 1 children, half frequent pretenders and half infrequent pretenders, were observed playing in dyads. Negotiation of pretend plans (BN) preceded social pretend enactment (BSP) with greater than chance frequency for all groups. Frequent pretenders had more predictable pathyways to BSP and fewer predictable exit behaviors. BSP and nonpretend social activity (BSL) formed distinct spheres of play activity. The complexity of social interaction increased sooner after BSP onset than after BSL onset, supporting the importance of social pretend play for the practice of social skills