• Rafia Iqbal
• Dr. Samridhi Arora

Play is a primary context for young children’s exploration, imagination, social interaction and learning. The nature and diversity of materials available for play can influence the range and complexity of children’s play experiences. For children living in semi-nomadic Gujjar communities, seasonal mobility, geographical isolation and limited access to early childhood services may shape the availability of play and learning materials. The present study aimed to document the play materials available to semi-nomadic Gujjar children aged 3–6 years and to explore the cognitive and socio-emotional opportunities afforded by their play experiences. The study was conducted in rural areas of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, and included 60 semi-nomadic Gujjar children. Data were collected through systematic observation of children’s play in natural settings and informal interactions with children and caregivers. Observational records and interaction notes were categorized according to the type of material, developmental opportunities and mode of play. Natural objects and reused household materials were predominant, while manufactured toys and educational materials were rarely observed. Children demonstrated considerable resourcefulness by transforming mud, stones, sticks, leaves, cloth, wire and household objects into play materials. Imaginative and role play reflected everyday experiences such as herding, cooking, milking and migration, providing opportunities for symbolic representation, social interaction and culturally meaningful expression. At the same time, the limited diversity of materials may constrain opportunities for varied cognitive, language and collaborative problem-solving experiences. The findings highlight the need for culturally responsive, affordable and portable play materials, along with play-based pedagogical support for Anganwadi workers and caregivers, particularly during periods of seasonal migration. Keywords: early childhood; play materials; play ecology; play-based learning; semi-nomadic Gujjar children; cognitive development; socio-emotional development; Rajouri; Jammu and Kashmir

"The Play Material Ecology of Semi-Nomadic Gujjar Children in Early Childhood: A Qualitative Study from Rajouri District, Jammu and Kashmir", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 9, page no.a796-a804, September-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2609099.pdf

"The Play Material Ecology of Semi-Nomadic Gujjar Children in Early Childhood: A Qualitative Study from Rajouri District, Jammu and Kashmir", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 9, page no. ppa796-a804, September-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2609099.pdf