Play, Learning and the Early Childhood Curriculum (2nd edition) By Elizabeth Wood and Jane Attfield (Paul Chapman, 0 7619 4174 6, 17.99, 020 7324 8500)
Reviewed by Sue Griffin, early years and childcare consultant and writer This book aims to improve the quality of play in 'educational' settings. It will be valuable for a wide range of practitioners.
Updating the first edition, a review of public policy since 1997 explores the way that the importance of play has achieved more recognition in early years educational provision. The authors say 'Early childhood educators will find it difficult, if not impossible, to provide a high quality curriculum without providing high quality play'.
They look at the 'pedagogy of play' - the role of the adult in planning, supporting and extending children's play. They sound a warning bell to help us interpret those familiar phrases, 'well planned play' and 'structured play' reminding us of Meckley's sound advice that 'adults cannot plan children's play, but can help to plan for children's play'.
An overview of theories, research and 'play scholarship', which is helping to provide a secure evidence base to link play and children's learning, is followed by chapters connecting theory to practice. Putting descriptions of three curriculum models, Te Whariki, Reggio Emilia and High/Scope together is thought provoking.
