The Problem: In early childhood education, culture and identity are frequently addressed through representational activities or curriculum content, which can reduce cultural heritage to a symbolic display. Such approaches risk overlooking how young children construct meaning, belonging, and identity through embodied and relational play experiences rooted in materials and interaction.

The Study: This paper presents an action research case study examining how loose parts pedagogy, intentionally informed by traditional Emirati play practices, supports young children’s understanding of culture and identity in early childhood settings across the United Arab Emirates.

Methodology: Educators in UAE early years settings designed open-ended play invitations inspired by traditional Emirati games, grounded in found and natural materials such as stones, shells, seeds, sand, and fabric. The sample included children aged three to four years across five schools. A cyclical action research approach combined pedagogical documentation, educator reflective journals, and systematic observations.

Findings: Findings indicate that loose parts functioned as cultural mediators, anchoring children’s emerging sense of belonging and identity within embodied, social play. Cultural values, including hospitality, generosity, collaboration, and togetherness, were enacted as lived practices. Children adapted and reimagined traditional play forms, demonstrating agency and creative ownership.

Contribution: The study contributes to early childhood research by demonstrating how play-based approaches support culture as dynamic, relational, and child-authored. It offers practical insights for educators and leaders seeking authentic, culturally responsive approaches to identity formation in early years contexts.

Authors:
Alueshima Jennifer Shaapera, Blossom Nursery & Preschool, United Arab Emirates
Nguyilan Shaaji, Emirates National School, United Arab Emirates

About the Presenter(s)
Alueshima Jennifer Shaapera is the Early Education Director at Blossom Nursery, Najda Branch, Abu Dhabi. Her interests include play‑based environments and mentoring. Her current project supports integrating Blossom’s sustainable education.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alueshima-shaapera-a0406871

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