Originally Posted by originalkat:
Yes.
When I play with the children I have found that they see me as a playmate instead of a teacher or authority figure. In addition, when I watch every move they make, and do not give them the space they need to negotiate, resolve conflicts, and use their imagination I find I tend to micro manage them and they rely on me to solve problems for them and entertain them.
This.... I learned a while back that my most annoying habit when it came to my method of playing with the kids was constantly micro-managing.
The BIGGEST lesson learned was what I viewed or considered as fair isn't the same as what the kids view and/or consider fair.
Fair does NOT mean equal.
By staying OUT of their play and especially their conflicts, children can learn skills that are necessary for surviving in the "real world".