Spotlight on Young Children: Exploring Play

Holly Bohart is senior editor in Books and Related Resources at NAEYC. She formerly taught in special education early childhood programs. Kathy Charner is editor in chief of NAEYC's Books and Related Resources department, with responsibility for the content, management, publication, and general excellence of the books and brochures published by NAEYC. Before joining NAEYC, Kathy was editor in chief at Gryphon House for more than 20 years. Derry Koralek, chief publishing officer of NAEYC, oversees the development of all print and digital publishing, including books, brochures, periodicals, professional development guides, posters, and websites for educators and families. Derry is editor in chief of Young Children and TYC-Teaching Young Children.

"Each article in this rich publication broadens and sometimes challenges readers’ ideas of what quality play experiences and environments provide for young children. This volume is a useful resource for those who are engaged with young children in playful learning environments, from classrooms to homes, libraries, museums, and more. The memos that accompany each article add meaningful commentary and urge all of us to become play advocates for children." — Jeri Robinson, Vice President, Early Childhood Initiatives, Boston Children’s Museum

• IntroductionInfants and Toddlers. Let’s Get Messy! Learning Through Art and Sensory Play Toddlers. Lively Minds at Play: Planning Environments and Materials That Support the Way Young Children LearnPreschool. Assessing and Scaffolding Make-Believe PlayPreschool. “Where Do the Bears Go?” The Value of Child-Directed PlayPreschool. Flying Over the School: Superhero Play— Friend or Foe?Preschool. “Todos Vamos a Jugar, Even the Teachers”— Everyone Playing TogetherPreschool. Which Toys Promote High-Quality Play? Reflections on the Five-Year Anniversary of the TIMPANI StudyPreschool Through Third Grade. Art Play: Stories of Engaging Families, Inspiring Learning, and Exploring EmotionsKindergarten Through Third Grade. Holding on to Play: Reflecting on Experiences as a Playful K–3 TeacherKindergarten Through Third Grade. Play for All Children: Access to Quality Play Experiences as a Social Justice IssueInfants Through Third Grade. Big Body Play: Understanding and Supporting ItResourcesReflecting, Discussing, and Exploring: Questions and Follow-Up Activities