"Peter Smith is to be congratulated for producing the first truly comprehensive synthesis on the subject of juvenile play. The work's breadth and thoroughness make it the definitive reference, while the quality of the prose enables the book's use as a textbook. Smith's treatment of methodology and theoretical history is especially thorough and insightful." David F. Lancy, Anthropology, Utah State University

"Peter Smith's book, Children and Play, is what one would expect from one of the leading figures in the field of play. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of evolutionary theory and the human developmental and comparative play literatures, Smith presents a comprehensive picture of the complexities of the place of play in human development as well as measured analyses of its place in schools. This book is a crowning achievement to his close to 40 years of careful study of the field. I learned a great deal from it." Anthony D. Pellegrini, Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota

"This book is an excellent synthesis of what is currently known about the play of children. Peter Smith, one of the leading play researchers of our time, sheds new light on some long-debated issues such as the definition of play, play's role in development and evolution, and the relationship between play and culture. I was very impressed with his balanced, objective discussion of play research. He effectively argues for a 'middle way' of viewing play, a view that neither idealizes nor denigrates its importance in the lives of children." James Christie, Curriculum and Instruction, Arizona State University

The role of play in development is a source of ongoing interest and debate. In this book, renowned expert Peter Smith offers an expansive definition of the term "play," taking an in-depth look at its impact on children, as well as its adaptive value in animals.

Using both contemporary and classic research, Smith examines how different age groups and sexes participate in a wide variety of play, including physical and rough-and-tumble play, play with objects, fantasy play and imaginary friends. The book gauges the function of play in early childhood education and the case for and against recess breaks in school. How play occurs in different societies and among various populations - including children with special needs - is also explored.

With its comprehensive coverage of theoretical, cross-cultural, and evolutionary perspectives, Children and Play holds significant insights for parents, educators, and clinicians.