A visual analysis intergenerational play histories and practices: five generations of an Australian family

Exploring play and leisure histories and practices in a visual analysis of family photos opens ways to scrutinize intergenerational relationships. In this paper, we explore ideas about interactions between the old and young, and within and across generations through a visual analysis of play and leisure activities. By looking back through five generations of family photos of one Australian family, we examine play and leisure practices of older generations that are continued, adapted or changed over time as they are passed down through the generations. We argue that intergenerational play and leisure practices can provide a space and time for social interaction between younger and older generations. Importantly, play and leisure practices within families can be a means for growing intergenerational relationships.