The Genius of Play: Celebrating the Spirit of Childhood

by Sally Jenkinson

When children play, they become creators, dreamers and artists. Sticks become wands, swords, dolls or snakes. This work addresses what play is, why it matters, and how modern life endangers children's play. Sally Jenkinson asks: what do children express in their play?; how does play develop empathy and social skills?; how are children influenced by inappropriate toys, TV and consumerism?; how does play develop children's imaginations?; why do children need adults who encourage play?; and how lively childhood players become creative adult thinkers?

Genres: Parenting

128 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2001

Reviews

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting and well written book on the significance of spontaneous play (not teacher-directed or adult-controlled) in human development and the urgency for today's children to take their time playing freely, if possible far from adult interference and supervision, whenever possible physically and outdoors.

A useful warning against "the current emphasis on formal learning and over-use of mediated experiences - tv, video, computer games- which can deprive children of immediate sensory encounters with the real world." and in general against accelerated learning and the cult of early adulthood.

Encouraging an active childhood and clearly explaining its benefits for children.

Very inspiring!

[Sarah Buckleitner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. Such a fascinating, scientifically-grounded, important argument for protecting children's play in a world of increasing technology and focus on academic achievement.

[Cecile · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stopped page 64 after too many thinly veiled evolutionist statements.