We started this series with the overall argument for why play is essential for human development. The next three episodes dug deep into three main themes: Why we need play for mental health and wellness, for brain development and real learning, and for soft skill development. Then, we shifted to several shorter episodes, touching on specific types of play and how they contribute to development. In this final episode, I’m talking about why ALL children need play, even when others may think it’s time to help children “catch up” instead.
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Notes from the Show:
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All Children Deserve Play (NJC)
Episode 61: Getting Curious About PreK Research (with Dr. Dale Farran)
Episode 50: Rethinking the Entire Approach to Preschool (Diving into the NPR Article)
Find the most recent iteration of the results from the Tennesee PreK Study in this journal article.
A top researcher says it’s time to rethink our entire approach to preschool (NPR)
The Importance of Being Little: What Preschoolers Really Need from Grownups by Erika Christakis
The “Play Deficit” Discovered by Physicians! Implications for Policy and Practice (Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Disorders, 2018)
Why We Play
Share the importance of play with the Why We Play letters! Learn more about Why We Play and sign up for the sample letter at the bottom to ensure you hear about any VIP discounts by clicking here!
