Play Works

About the Book

To play is to learn. No other activity contributes as much to the growth and development of children in the early years. Parents, teachers of young children and caregivers will find this book a valuable resource for understanding children's play and what children learn through play. It describes how play effects the development of the body, the mind, literacy, socialization and artistic expression. It provides a wide range of practical ideas for supporting play without interfering. This book explores the relationship between play and the development of skills for a changing marketplace. It critically examines current practices that undermine the effect of play and limit learning in the early years to what can be measured on a standardized test.

About the Author

Susanne T. Eden, Ed.D.

Professor Emeritus, York University, Toronto, Ontario

Known for her dedication to, and passion for, quality education of young children, Susanne began her career as an elementary teacher and a Curriculum Coordinator before becoming an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Susanne holds Doctor of Education and Masters of Education Degrees from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto. For many years she taught Specialist Courses in Primary and Junior Education. She designed and taught curriculum courses in play, language and learning for the Masters of Education Program at York University.

As a past national President of the Canadian Association for Young Children and a former Chair of the Board of Governors, Seneca College, Toronto, Susanne has provided leadership in education across Canada. Her experience in the school systems, the colleges and the universities has provided her with a broad perspective. She has traveled extensively as a speaker, staff developer, author and consultant.

Although retired, she has continued to serve as an author, consultant and staff developer to such groups as the YMCA, Greater Metro Toronto, the Ontario Elementary Teachers Federation, the Better Beginnings Initiative and the Learning Partnership.