Through this fantasy play, children can examine events and relationships in ways that are different from the original intent. They also can pretend it is a boat skiing across the lake or a basketball sliding through the net. Early School Age - 4 to 6 years of age Children in preschool and early elementary grades continue to use fantasy play. They also begin to show interest in group play. Group play is more structured and is based more on reality than fantasy.
Group play usually involves a few rules.
The rules allow the child to begin developing independence yet cooperation with partners. Often early school-age games allow the children to change roles frequently so they begin to experience many perspectives. This less-structured group play provides a transition between fantasy play and more structured team sports which begin in elementary grades. Resources Learning to play with children requires adults to have a willingness to think and act like a child. Often as adults get involved with work, family, and personal responsibilities, they forget the spontaneity of childhood.