ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book introduces the pursuit of public health through play and playfulness, and explores how the science and the art of public health can interact with what is known about the importance of play from cradle to grave. It discusses the playful brain, exposing how play as an evolutionary mechanism impacts on mental capital through the life-course. The book examines the science of public health, highlighting how play and playfulness can contribute to the three pillars of protection, promotion and prevention. It highlights the significance of family cohesion for public health and offers examples of the benefits of becoming a playful family. The book explains how play and playfulness contribute to the public health agenda for children and adolescents, acknowledging the central role of play for helping children to reach their full potential.
