Playing by Heart: The Vision and Practice of Belonging

by O. Fred Donaldson

A philosophical and psychological examination of play discusses play as an original and creative force and as a practical and universal way to experience belonging

Genres: Parenting

280 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1993

About the author

O. Fred Donaldson, Ph.D. is a play specialist internationally recognized for his forty years of ongoing research and active play with children and animals. he has coined the term "original play" to describe his work. He has written Playing By heart and over 40 articles on original play. He is an aikidoist and consultant to families, educational, social service, health, and environmental organizations, as well as corporations and athletic groups. His playmates include special needs children, gang members, refugee and street children, prison inmates, cancer patients, dolphins, whales, lions, bears, wolves, baboons, hummingbirds and butterflies. He travels extensively including Bahrain, Lebanon, Namibia, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Canada, Bali, The Philippines, Singapore, Europe and the United States.

Reviews

[Teri Dluznieski · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are 2 must-reads for authors and publishers. this is the first of them. Donaldson studied the language and culture of PLAY. not recreation, not chilling out. PLAY. He found that play has a language that is universal, shared by all children regardless of race, culture, IQ, mental acuity/deficiency; he found that even animals have this language. He also understands that play does NOT set limitations, is NOT a reward and is NOT a bargaining chip.

Anyone who works in the creative mediums will benefit from understanding these concepts. because, coupled with the second book, On writers block- it helps to appreciate and nurture the writing/ creating element and process.

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the idea of this book. It was almost more of a philosophy book. There was not a lot of how to in here. He did not want it to be a how to. It was about the importance of play in our lives and how as a culture we surpress it and don't see its importance. I was unable to finish this book and had to return it before the end. Maybe there is more how to set up play as the book goes on.

[Kristi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've met and adore Fred and hopefully this will help me to finally read his book!
But it didn't. I don't it was a bit too... esoteric. I don't know what I was hoping for, because the bottom line is a I just want to play with Fred again and no book can substitute for that. But it still too esoteric for my taste. I wish he could just explain things in the book how he does in play workshops.

[Amanda Emmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went to his weekend workshop. It was very eye-opening as to how to connect with children to the very eldest. All of us, even the animals have a common ground of connection when it comes to play. This book I highly recommend to parents, teachers, care-givers, animal owners, ...

[Calista · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite inspirational books relating to my profession. He does a wonderful job of describing what it is like to be fully present in the company of a child and the wonder/joy that ensues. It serves as a wonderful wake up call and reminder simply sitting on my desk.

[Rowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bet I have given away at least 30 copies of this book. You might want to contact the author for a copy of the book rather than going through Amazon. I am pretty sure he can sell you a copy for less than $93.00

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring, exciting ideas. A wonderful book.

[Rhys Leclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guy has had such an interesting life and range of experiences, working/playing with wolves and special-needs kids, and everyone else besides. He comes across as such a genuine person, his personality and outlook on life makes this book a pleasure to read. A cracker-jack book full of interesting quotes and anecdotes. Read it!

[Elizabeth · Rating 1 out of 5]

checked out from Washington Co. Cooperative Library Services, 11/13 list.

[Vanya Koleva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Книга,в която играта е представена по различен начин, променящ досега известните стереотипи и норми. В "Играй със сърце"няма победители и победени,а с любов и доброта одухотворени.