Exploring Parent Attitudes Toward Children's Play and Learning in Cyprus

Abstract

This descriptive study, undertaken in Nicosia, Cyprus, sought to examine the beliefs and attitudes of Greek/Cypriot parents (n = 142) toward play and learning. The research findings revealed that Greek/Cypriot parents valued play over and above academic training and considered it important for the development of their young children. However, this emphasis on play was not instantiated in the daily after-school routines of their children, which incorporated more hours spent on academics and organized lessons than any other activity, including play, per day. Other findings revealed more inconsistent attitudes regarding play and learning expressed by the Greek/Cypriot parents, placing them closer to the academically oriented formal and direct instruction side of the education and play spectrum, with little time available for play.

Keywords:

• parents
• attitudes
• play
• learning
• Cyprus