Play, Narrative and Learning

This presentation focuses on the central role that narrative plays in human interaction, and how children learn about narrative through play. The complex relationship between language and narrative is considered, including the example of the narrative-rich approach of Native Australians in their interactions with young children. It will consider how we might introduce more opportunities for our children to create rich narratives in their everyday lives both with adults and with peers, which may positively impact upon juvenile mental health.