The Secret of Play

Book excerpt: Secrets for raising healthy, creative and caring children from birth to 8 Help your child to be happier, healthier, more caring and creative by understanding and encouraging what they do best - play. Through play, children explore the world around them, develop an understanding of who they are, boost their brainpower, strengthen relationships and experience the healing power of a shared laugh. From a 1-year-old scribbling to an 8-year-old building models, find out about the value of play at each age and stage, drawing on the latest research on brain development, emotional growth and learning. You'll learn which ideas, toys and games are developmentally appropriate and pick up tips on playtime ideas, homemade fun and more. Follow it age-by-age, stage-by-stage and dip in and out as your child plays and develops. Essential for any parent.