CAMPOS-DE-CARVALHO, Mara. Ocupação do espaço por crianças em creches. Rev. etol. []. 2004, 6, 1, pp.41-48. ISSN 1517-2805.

Results of studies we carried out in day care centers show the influence of spatial arrangement on the use of space and on children's activities. Following an ecological experimental methodology, data were recorded with photographic or video cameras throughout three phases. In the first one, in most studies, we kept the usual spatial arrangement (an empty central space, withouv circumscribed zones); in the second one, small shelves were put along the periphery of available space; the same shelves were used to structure the circumscribed zones in the last phase. An analysis performed on records, every 30 seconds or every minute, of the children's positions indicated the preferencial use of specific areas, according to the kind of spatial arrangement and to the manipulated variables. Our results contribute to the understanding of the interdependence between spatial arrangement and the structuring role of the adult in peer interactions.

: Environmental psychology; Spatial arrangement; Peer interaction; Day care centers.

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