Guns! - Silkysteps early years forum

glasses girl · #1 03-08-2010, 08:45 AM

Everyone is going to think I've lost the plot. What is the latest thinking about playing gun related games? For the last 25 years I have discouraged children (boys) making guns from construction toys or anything else they could lay their hands on, now after all the tennis bats being used, and getting broken, I'm having a rethink.
Should I buy some open ended resources that can be used for the games/role play, buy some toy guns or just carry on explaining why we don't play with guns and frustrating the children and their play?
I'm sure I read somewhere that this form of play is now ok.
I would of course, if you don't all shout me down, ask for parent opinion.

DizzyDora · #2 03-09-2010, 11:08 AM

I don't allow gun toys or things to be played with as guns in my setting though i do understand where you're coming from. I'm in an Infant school so we explain to the children that we don't have guns because in real life it's not safe to play with them because they hurt people and 'touch wood there doesn't seem to have been too much of a problem.

FARLEYS · #3 03-11-2010, 08:23 AM

if your in an out of school setting you should be following the playwork principles.............if the children what to play guns they should be allowed as play should be "freely chosen, personally directed and intrinsically motivated. That is children and young people determine and control the content and intent of their play"

akel1111 · #4 03-22-2010, 06:31 PM

Look at the book 'We don't play with guns here' Penny Holland.
Also the government has just issued guidance that states that weapon play is beneficial . especially to boys. The guidance, called Confident, Capable and Creative: Supporting Boys' Achievements, is issued by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...#ixzz0ivZu0ZmA

glasses girl · #5 03-22-2010, 08:06 PM

I just knew I'd read it somewhere,I'll follow my instincts and buy some open ended resources. Thanks for the info.

akel1111 · #6 03-23-2010, 12:00 AM

I have just handed in an assignment on weapon play as part of my BA hons. Would you like to read it? If so I will send it to you privately.
Cheers
Ann