Children often engage in conversation with the child next to them during meeting. We wondered if, by being seated close to each other in a certain spot it would be easier for them to converse. While in the midst of play, children may attempt to talk as they are turning away or running off to get something, or calling across the classroom to each other, sometimes ineffectively (Jamie mistakenly thought someone called him a burger! Diane cleared up the mistake: You’re bigger, not a burger!) We thought a designated talking area might interest the children and provide a context for conversation. So we set up a couple of old-fashioned phones at a table to see what would happen…
Ellie Um, what are these telephones doing here?
Livia Can we use them?
Ellie picks up phone: Hi, I like you but you can visit my house next year.
Livia Yeah, you can come to my house, too.
Ellie Yeah, but, bye.
(They bring babies over)
Ellie Can you take care of my babies? They’re sick.
Livia Okay, I’ll take care of them. I’ll see you soon. Bye.
Ellie Bye. (they hang up)
(They take care of the baby, Livia as the doctor giving medicine.
Then they get another baby and get back on the phone, switching roles.)
Livia Hi, can you take care of my other baby, ‘cause he’s sick, okay?
Ellie Okay, bye.
(Livia hands Ellie the baby and Ellie gives her a shot.)
