Antisocial Play in the Preschool: Survey Data on Children's Behaviour and Some Response Strategies in Current Use

Abstract

Antisocial play behaviour, though not commonly encountered in the preschool, nonetheless introduces interpersonal as well as organisational tensions when it occurs. The research reported in this paper is based on survey details which outline the behaviours involved and a range of strategies currently used to deal with disruptive play. The study used a sample from State preschool centres in North Queensland. Survey responses highlighted the general practice of keeping centre rules and guidelines constantly in public view, and the need for diversity and flexibility in access to and deployment of strategies designed to ameliorate the impact of antisocial play.