Variability in the Play of Preschoolers with Cognitive Delays Across Different Toy Sets

Abstract

The variability in the play of 30 preschool children with cognitive delays associated with different toy sets was examined. Twelve dependent variables representing categorical and sequential play were coded from videotaped home‐based independent play sessions using a continuous 15 s interval coding procedure. Analyses of toy effect were conducted both across and within toy sets. Sex by toy set interaction effects emerged for exploration, pretend, ordered multischeme sequences, and global play sophistication. Main effects across toy sets were noted for nonplay, functional play, construction, overall proportion of play, time spent sequencing activities, and length of play sequences. The pattern of play observed within each toy set was strikingly similar across each of the three toy sets. The implications of these results for practice are discussed.