Playful Parenting by Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D. explains the importance of play in a child’s life and how you can use play to get through to kids on their level. Cohen is a psychologist that uses play therapy. With all the importance on learning and I.Q., many people have begun to think of play time as wasting time. This book shows you why that could not be farther from the truth. Playing helps children learn, helps their confidence, social connections, communication, and so much more. Play is a child’s work, and it is important stuff.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book is all the stories about the author’s play experiences with different children. He gives lots of examples how play helped different children through something in their life. Wether it be bullying, loneliness, trust, or any other trouble – play can help children deal with their feelings and cope.
While I did enjoy this book, and I am glad I read it, I think it is more fitting to read when you have children that are at the play age. I know I will forgot most of the play exercises before I ever have a child old enough to play. I will keep this book in my library and re-read it when I have a child that is the toddler age.