Perceptions of Play Among Mothers and Fathers from Low-Income Households in Türkiye

In this phenomenological study, we explored the play perceptions of parents with young children from low-income households in T & uuml;rkiye. Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews with 36 parents (18 mothers and 18 fathers), all of whom have children in their early childhood years. We transcribed the interviews and conducted a thematic analysis. The findings illuminate the diverse perceptions of children's play among parents in low-income households, highlighting a shared recognition of play as a social activity and a source of joy, while also revealing differing views. Parents in the study generally value studying, health, and familial love and respect above play. Their control over children's playtime is significantly influenced by concerns over academic performance and safety. Mothers are typically the primary participants in children's play due to their increased presence at home, while fathers' participation is significantly limited by work obligations and exhaustion. Low-income parents hold diverse perceptions of children's play, recognizing it as a social activity and a source of joy.Parents generally value studying, health, and familial love and respect above play.Low-income parents' control over children's playtime is mainly shaped by concerns over academic performance and safety.Mothers are typically the primary participants in children's play due to their increased presence at home.Fathers' participation is significantly limited by work obligations and exhaustion.