The Brain that Loves to Play: A Visual Guide to Child Development, Play, and Brain Growth

This book provides an accessible introduction to how play affects the holistic development and brain growth of children from birth to five years. It is written by a leading expert and packed with images and links to film clips of children playing in different contexts. Each chapter follows an easy-to-navigate format, including best practice boxes, QR codes, brain and body facts sections, play and pedagogy discussion questions, and extended material to support the level four descriptors for degree-level study. It is essential reading for all early years students and practitioners and all those with an interest in child development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating visual book offers an accessible introduction to the profound impact of play on children's holistic development and brain growth from birth to five years. Authored by a renowned expert, it brings current theory to life by inviting readers to celebrate the evolving brain that craves playful interaction and thrives on sensitive human connection. Packed with vibrant images and links to film clips showcasing children engaging in various play scenarios across different contexts on the companion website, the chapters focus on different ages and stages of development, providing snapshots of real-life play scenarios to explore their unique play preferences and the underlying theories that guide their behavior. Through clear explanations of what transpires in the body and brain at each stage, this book unveils the vast array of play opportunities available and the crucial role of adults in fostering them. Each chapter follows a user-friendly format, including:
• Best practice boxes highlighting the positive outcomes of play in diverse contexts on children's development
• QR codes linking to short film clips on the companion website to illustrate key points
• Brain and body facts sections offering concise explanations of key theories
• Play and pedagogy discussion questions
• Extended material to support the level four descriptors for degree-level study.
With additional opportunities for deeper exploration, full-color photographs, and a fully integrated companion website, The Brain that Loves to Play emerges as an indispensable resource for early years students, practitioners, and anyone with a passion for child development.

Dimension: 246 x 189 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032314402