'This is an authoritative and detailed analysis of the complexities of children's play in different situations. It is made more accessible by the 'reflection points' scattered through the text that encourage the reader to link theory with examples drawn from their own practice. It is an excellent up to date source of reference, and will be of significant interest to anyone wanting to understand more about the true nature of young children's play and how to enhance it' - Early Years Update
Good general text for the whole FdA Early Childhood Education programme as covers many aspects of the individual modules
A very useful piece which tackles different stances to play. Would be better suited for foundation degree learning but a valuable book regardless
This is accessible and supports the reader's understanding of play and its importance.
An excellent book which gives a good insight into the whole ethos of play based early years curriculum.
Along with many theoretical perspectives this book represents an interesting comparison between concepts of a ‘transmission/directive approach’ and ‘emergent responsive approach’ in providing purposeful learning environments for children. It also gives meaningful argument towards the power of children’s agency. Good use of research.
A great complimentry resource that supports my play and learning unit . There are links to a variety of play ideas and to frameworks that support play and practice. Easy to navigate and use as a reference tool. Students have found the layout easy to use and have commented on the up to date information that aids their study.
an information, easy to use text book
Thought provoking; essential for university students of any HE level in the fields of early years, childhood or early education.
A fasinating read which will help to develop my own continuous professional development. The book will also be strongly recommended to H.E. students to develop their understanding of play and the diverse cultural attitude practitioners may face from parents regarding play.
This is a very interesting and enjoyable book to read. There are references to other chapters throughout which ties the concepts together nicely. The links to the authors research is well laid out and written an easily accessible style.
This book will be used and recommended in with 1st and 2nd year BA (hons) Early Years students
A very good read for those students who struggle to link theory to practice. Excellent for help with planning.
A book which illustrates the essential nature of play and how it can be incorporated successfully into the EYFS. The students (Primary PGCE) were very responsive to this book and enjoyed the ideas and theory presented within.
This book was not well used for the policy assignment but will use it for the assignment 'supporting the early years curriculum' and it will be on the essential list for that module.
The chapter format of this book breaks the key issues in to easily readable chunks that are manageable by the students with each chapter supplying introductions and conclusions to help understanding.
This will be a good addition to the book list for any student who is passionate about providing an appropriate play based learning environment for children. Each chapter is clearly written and provides a comprehensive reference section which will support/signpost students in their own independent learning. Supported by useful tables, observations. I particularly liked the chapted on Risky Play as this is so topical at the moment
A very useful text with a breadth of perspectives covered, providing a comprehensive starting point for students on the Early Years Education course Abigail Gosling, University of Bedfordshire.
Good resource when looking at the EYFS
A usefull text for my students providing some contemporary studies and literature specifically relating to the early years. The structure of the book makes sense with accessible language and easily navigable concepts.