ABSTRACT
Historical changes in play are taking place in childhood all over the world, with the digitalisation of children’s lives. Researchers are worried about the disappearance of advanced forms of play and the prioritization of time spent with loving adults, supporting play with babies and toddlers. At the same time, our understanding about the crucial importance of individual development is becoming clearer.
The Routledge International Handbook of Early Childhood Play explores these issues and more. It proposes the importance of adult participation in play, as adult guidance brings the possibility of moral, cultural and symbolic elements to children’s play, and enhances the educational opportunities in adult-child joint play. The book also examines the aesthetic dimension of play and its role in the development of imagination and creativity.
With contributors from many parts of the world, this unique handbook brings together the latest research and highlights practice which focuses on play. This is an essential and engaging read for all students, academics, teachers and practitioners with an interest in play.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part I|79 pages
Selected historical approaches to children’s play
chapter 3|13 pages
Play birth to three
part II|51 pages
Play in different cultures
part III|45 pages
Socio-dramatic play
part IV|77 pages
Observing and intervening in play
chapter 17|16 pages
Pooh bear’s turn!
part V|55 pages
Play environments, toys and partners
chapter 20|15 pages
Collaborative play with dramatization
part VI|42 pages
Development and learning in play
part VII|52 pages
Play and children with special needs