The child has left the stage of imitation and can now explore, imagine, and initiate play. The social world encompasses more than his/her family; it also includes the community and possible nursery school. The pre-schooler sorts out the rules, expectations, and morals of this newly-discovered world through their play—pretending to be doctor, mother, Superman, etc. At times, however they lose sight of the line between fantasy and reality. To them if they can imagine something, they can do it. The fear of that power or impulse turns into guilt.
Activities
Hand students a piece of newsprint and have them draw a room in their house at age 5. After drawing have them write down what they can remember about playing there. What were their fantasies?
Visit and observe a nursery school and look at the equipment. What types of imaginary play does it encourage? What roles do you see kids playing? What is their teacher’s role?
Prepare a ditto about moral conflicts students might have as adolescents: Should I cheat on an exam? Should I drive and drink? Have them also distinguish between conflicts about:
Should
I do something and
Can
I do something (Autonomy and Doubt) . . . . Can I leave home, Am I ready to be responsible? Can I make it through basic training?
Readings
My Oedipus Complex
. Frank O’Connor.
A five year old boy is living in a blissful state with his mother’s full attention while father is overseas at war. When Father returns life is hell and a new battleground occurs between Father and son for Mother’s attention. The story and emotions resolve themselves when father and son align themselves after the birth of a new daughter. (Should be used only if one is prepared to explain the Oedipal complex and the resolution of sex-roles, according to Freud.)
Charles
. Shirley Jackson
When Laurie goes to nursery school he encounters a very bad child, Charles. Each day he brings home tales about this child. His parents listen intently. After a month Charles begins to reform and be the teacher’s helper. When Laurie’s parents attend the parents’ meeting, they learn there is no Charles in this class.