This unique collection of 12 research projects carried out by experienced practitioners in the play sector in the UK and USA puts forward a range of perspectives on children's play and adults' relationships with it. Drawing on a diverse range of research methodologies, the studies consider adults' memories of play; the co-production of spaces where children can play (in adventure playgrounds, out of school clubs, children's zoos, children's museums and public space); therapeutic approaches to playwork; playwork and wellbeing; supporting the play of severely disabled children and young people; play and contemporary art practice; and children's use of technology in a playground. Offering a fresh look beyond the dominant singular voice of developmental psychology, this book is essential reading for anyone studying or working with children at play.

About the Author
Dr Wendy Russell is Senior Lecturer in Play and Playwork at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. Her research focuses on supporting children's right to play, particularly in terms of politics of space, policy and ethics. Dr Stuart Lester was Senior Lecturer in Play and Playwork at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. His key research interests included the nature and value of children's play, playful production of time/space through everyday encounters and the conditions under which children's (and adults) playfulness may thrive. Hilary Smith is the Course Leader for the MA Professional Studies in Children's Play and a Senior Lecturer in the School of Liberal and Performing Arts at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. Her research interests are in the realm of children's play and links with physical literacy, health and wellbeing.

Reviews
"Practice-based Research in Children's Play, edited by Wendy Russell, Stuart Lester and Hilary Smith, delivers a unique take on play and playwork. This collection's uniqueness... is the story behind the book and research projects presented in its chapters which make this edited collection one-of-a-kind. Overall, this book provides more than just a collection of different case studies on play and playwork. This is an exciting and unique book which not only provides evidence of the University of Gloucestershire's innovative postgraduate programmes, but it also provides academics, playworkers and policymakers insight into how academic theories can be activity engaged with and put into practice." Childen's Geographies
"This timely volume offers many new perspectives on an under-researched subject. It will surely help to stimulate new research into children's play." Professor Fraser Brown, Childhood Development and Playwork Team, Leeds Beckett University



Book Information
ISBN 9781447330042
Author Lindsey Kilgour
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Bristol University Press