ABSTRACT

This brand new text breaks the mould of books on the subject of play currently on the market. It explores, debates and further develops the theory of play, relating cutting-edge theory to examples of practice, taken from a broad range of multi-disciplinary perspectives.

Each author brings their own perspective to the subject, based on rich and diverse experience, examining play-based activities from a wide variety of settings: the classroom, the playground, the home and local community.

Each chapter is illustrated throughout with observation notes, case studies, interviews and discussions, encouraging you not only to critically evaluate current research but to reflect on ways in which you could develop and improve your own practice.

Perspectives on Play will be an invaluable resource for any student studying within childhood studies, playwork programmes or training to teach at early years or primary level. The book is also ideal for early years, primary and play practitioners.

section 1|68 pages

The Value of Play?

chapter 2|30 pages

‘We Don’t Play Like That Here’

Social, Cultural and Gender Perspectives on Play

section 2|120 pages

Children at Play

chapter 3|33 pages

Curriculum and Pedagogy of Play

A Multitude of Perspectives?

chapter 4|27 pages

Born to Play

Babies and Toddlers Playing

chapter 5|30 pages

Playing in the Early Years

At Liberty to Play – Not only Legal but also Statutory!

chapter 6|29 pages

‘We Want to Play’

Primary Children at Play in the Classroom

section 3|80 pages

Supporting Children’s Play

chapter 7|21 pages

Building ‘Social Hardiness’ for Life

Rough and Tumble Play in the Early Years of Primary School

chapter 9|16 pages

Playwork

chapter 10|21 pages

Opening Play

Research into Play and Dramatherapy

section 4|30 pages

Concluding Perspectives

chapter 11|29 pages

Play, Learning for Life

In Pursuit of ‘Well-Being’ Through Play