The Playful Classroom: The Power of Play for All Ages (Paperback)

About the Authors

Acknowledgments

Introduction

In order for the PLAYFUL Classroom to become a reality, there are some foundational beliefs that always matter.

Section 1: THE CASE FOR PLAY: page XXX

Play designs the future. Trains, planes, and automobiles of today were the kids’ cardboard creations of yesterday.

Section 2: PLAY INSPIRES CREATIVITY: page XXX

Creativity inspires play

Remember when you needed a tent, but had no tent? You found chairs and blankets and made one. You played and solved a problem through critical thinking using the materials you had.

Section 3: PLAY BUILDS TRUST: page XXX

Trust builds opportunities for play

We must trust students, parents, colleagues, administration., and ourselves If we constantly doubt one another’s abilities, motives, judgements, & qualifications, how can we move forward together?

Section 4: PLAY STRENGTHENS RELATIONSHIPS: page XXX

Relationships are strengthened through play

Our students are humans before they get to us, and they’re still humans when they leave. It will do us well to remember that fact more than their test scores, data, and grades.

Section 5: PLAY CULTIVATES COMMUNITY: page XXX

Communities are strengthened when we play

We live and interact with others—locally, regionally, and globally. Play helps us shape a mindset of advocacy, awareness, sensitivity, and compassion for all.

Section 6: PLAY NURTURES GROWTH: page XXX

Growth shapes our play

We can always be better. Play helps us to grow.

Section 7: GET OUT THERE AND PLAY!: page XXX

Appendix A: Southernisms and Their Meanings

Appendix B: The Playful Classroom Teacher’s Reading Guide