Play is crucial to the learning and development of children in the early
years. The third edition of Play in the Early Years is a comprehensive
introduction to the theory and practice of play for children from birth
to 8 years old. Drawing on classical and contemporary theories, this
text examines social, cultural and institutional approaches to play, and
explores a range of strategies for successfully integrating play into
early years settings and primary classrooms. This edition features a new
chapter on conceptual playworlds, which demonstrates what conceptual
playworlds look like to infants and toddlers, pre-schoolers, and
children transitioning into school. The text features classroom
vignettes and photographs designed to help students connect theory to
practice, and reflection questions and research activities encourage
in-depth reflection and extend learning. Highly regarded by early
childhood researchers and practitioners alike, Play in the Early Years
remains an essential resource for pre-service students.