I’ll play with you but on certain conditions: an Australian study exploring the factors of increased rough and tumble play

Rough and tumble play (RTP) is a common form of play for children in their early years. Research on RTP has found positive outcomes in physical, social, and emotional development. Previous research has focussed on the father’s RTP interactions with their child. However, there is little research to date about what factors are associated with both mothers and fathers participating in RTP in Australia. This study aimed to explore the frequency of RTP within Australia and factors associated with increased engagement in RTP. 367 Caregivers (323 female, 44 males) of children aged from birth to 10 years old (177 boys and 190 girls) completed the anonymous online Australian Parent-Child Play Study questionnaire. Preliminary analyses revealed that there was no difference in frequency of RTP between male or female caregivers, but a higher frequency of boys playing RTP than girls. Higher frequency of RTP was also significantly different based on location, caregiver’s education, and a parent’s perceived importance and enjoyment. Given the positive factors that RTP has on a child’s wellbeing and development, understanding what contributes to increased RTP frequency between caregivers and children can assist in guiding education on the topic of RTP within Australia.