Play and Social Justice

“ is a vital resource for all who recognize the critical place of play in the lives of all children. The contributors have not only meticulously outlined the current inequities of play, particularly for children and communities of marginalized groups, but they have also given us clear, powerful examples of how to advocate and promote play. Thank you for leading the way to play as a form of social justice!” —Debora Wisneski, Professor Teacher Education Department University of Nebraska, Omaha; Past President of The Association for the Study of Play (TASP); Co-editor,

“ presents valuable insights into the connections between play and social justice in the lives of children. This is exploration of the topic is an important read for any individual who hopes to create opportunities for children to learn and grow through the process of play while developing the consciousness required to transform their world for the better. It is a welcome addition to the collection of scholarship that aims to humanize the experiences of children and the value of play in our world.” — Brian Williams, Director, Alonzo A. Crim Center for Urban Educational Excellence; Clinical Professor, Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education; College of Education and Human Development, Georgia State University

“This book is a comprehensive treatment of Play and it represents a milestone in Play research, practice, and advocacy. This compilation of perspectives, insights, and critical analyses across wide-ranging contexts is an accomplishment of the highest order. It is an important read in a changing world where Play is undervalued and under threat.” —Darrel R. Davis, Professor, Assistant Chair, Educational Psychology, Researcher on Play, Technology, and Human Development, Miami University, Ohio

Play and Social Justice: The Issues – The Nature of Play and the Nature of Social Justice – Issues, Disparities, and Inequities in Play Opportunity – Leveling the Playing Field – Teaching and Pedagogical Practices – Community and Institutional Programs and Programming – Play Research Methods and Advocacy – Appendix Resources for Play Advocates – Index – About the Authors.