A Moral Case for Play in K-12 Schools: The Urgency of Advancing Moral Ecologies of Play

Levingston argues that schools must make room for character-building play due to its essential role in moral development. He utilizes field-based research to demonstrate that students need to engage in role-playing, language, number, kinesthetic, and imaginative play to promote moral growth, creativity, and a sense of community.

Format: Hardback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his groundbreaking book, "A Moral Case for Play: The Urgency of Advancing Moral Ecologies of Play in K-12 Schools," Levingston makes a compelling argument for the inclusion of character-building play in schools. Through extensive field-based research, including interviews, observations, and experiences in various schools, including Catholic, Jewish, Progressive, Quaker, single-gender, and non-sectarian institutions, Levingston sheds light on the essential role of play in moral development. His timely insights and explanations of the moral ecologies of play intersect with the work of anthropologists, educators, education researchers, folklorists, medical researchers, psychologists, and STEAM educators, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives.

This book goes beyond the traditional understanding of play as physical and social activity during recess and emphasizes the importance of role-playing, language, number, kinesthetic, and imaginative play. Levingston offers a fresh definition of play that encompasses its holistic nature and recognizes its potential to promote moral growth, creativity, and a sense of community within any academic program.

Through his research, Levingston demonstrates how schools can create unique moral ecologies that foster the development of moral consciousness, empathy, and social skills. He highlights the importance of providing students with opportunities to engage in imaginative play, which allows them to explore different perspectives, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate a sense of wonder. Levingston also emphasizes the role of teachers in fostering a play-based learning environment that encourages risk-taking, collaboration, and self-expression.

By advancing moral ecologies of play in K-12 schools, Levingston believes that we can create a more compassionate, inclusive, and morally robust society. His book offers valuable insights and practical strategies for educators, policymakers, and parents to promote play as an essential component of education and foster the moral development of our children.

In conclusion, "A Moral Case for Play" is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the transformative power of play in moral development. Levingston's research provides a compelling argument for the inclusion of character-building play in schools and offers valuable insights and strategies for educators, policymakers, and parents to promote play as an essential component of education. By advancing moral ecologies of play, we can create a more compassionate, inclusive, and morally robust society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666910810