An Observational Study of Preschool Children's Prosocial Interactions During Play

Abstract

The author observed the interactions of preschool children at First Care, a fully licensed childcare center that is affiliated and run through First United Methodist Church, Kalamazoo, Michigan, in order to understand the process in which they learn prosocial behaviors during play. The author focuses on the process, and the influence of the teachers and peers on the child. The author’s observations focus on sharing, turn taking and altruism.