The Power of Play: Learning What Comes Naturally

by David Elkind

Overview

From an expert in childhood development, a book that emphasizes the importance of imaginative play, and how it sets children up for success in the classroom.

While parents may worry that their children will be at a disadvantage if they are not engaged in constant, explicit learning or using the latest "educational" games, David Elkind's The Power of Play reassures us that unscheduled imaginative play is essential. Through expert research and situational examples, Elkind shows that creative spontaneous activity best sets the stage for academic learning.

An important contribution to the literature about how children learn, The Power of Play suggests ways to restore play's respected place in children's lives. It encourages parents to trust their instincts and resist the promise of the dubious array of educational products on the market geared to youngsters.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780738211107
Publisher:	Hachette Books
Publication date:	12/25/2007
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	256
Sales rank:	916,286
Product dimensions:	5.36(w) x 8.16(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

David Elkind, PhD, is a professor emeritus of the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Development at Tufts University and the author of more than a dozen books, including The Hurried Child and The Power of Play. Through his writings, media appearances, and lectures in the United States and abroad, he is recognized as one of the leading advocates for the preservation of childhood. He lives on Cape Cod.

Table of Contents

Introduction     ix
The Changing World of Play     1
Play, Love, and Work: An Essential Trio     3
Toys Aren't Us     15
Screen Play and Iconic Literacy     37
Child Play and Parent Angst     63
Play, Learning, and Development     87
Misunderstandings About How Young Children Learn     89
Playing for a Reason: Building the Units of Math, Reading, and Science     119
It Isn't Only a Game: The Role of Play in Becoming Social     145
The Power of Play     169
Lighthearted Parenting     171
Schooling with Heart, Mind, and Body     195
Epilogue: Gifts for a Lifetime     217
Acknowledgments     219
Nates     221
Other References     227
Index     229