What Are Schemas?
Schemas are repeated patterns of behaviour that children use to explore and make sense of the world. Understanding schemas helps educators and parents support children's natural learning drives.
Common Schemas
- Trajectory — throwing, dropping, kicking, pouring
- Rotation — spinning, turning, rolling
- Enclosing — building walls, wrapping things up, putting objects in bags
- Transporting — carrying objects from one place to another
- Connecting — joining things together, building bridges
Supporting Schema Play
When you recognise a child's schema, you can provide materials and experiences that extend their learning. A child who loves transporting? Give them bags, baskets, wheelbarrows, and buckets.
