In "Free to Learn," developmental psychologist Peter Gray argues that in order to foster children who will thrive in today s constantly changing world, we must entrust them to steer their own learning and development. Drawing on evidence from anthropology, psychology, and history, he demonstrates that free play is the primary means by which children learn to control their lives, solve problems, get along with peers, and become emotionally resilient....

A psychological analysis based on the author's studies in play behavior reveals how play is essential to the development of social skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. From a leading expert comes a groundbreaking book on the science of play, and its essential role in fueling intelligence and happiness throughout life. Dr. Brown shows that play is anything but trivial -- it is a biological drive as integral to health as sleep or nutrition....

Award-winning essayist and poet Diane Ackerman illuminates an exalted state of transcendence achieved through emotionally and physically vigorous activities. Keenly perceived and written with poetic exuberance, "Deep Play" enlightens us anew by revealing the manifold ways we can enhance our lives.

Discusses the importance of play in developing social and emotional skills necessary to succeed later in life.

"On a day when even the rain is too bored to fall, ride alongside a girl on her rickety bicycle through the familiar scenes of her neighborhood as she rediscovers the colors-a splash of yellow, a flash of red, a flutter of blue-that can be found even when all seems monochrome. In this artful picture book that celebrates do-nothing days and solitary adventures, readers learn how embracing quiet stillness with openness and curiosity can make space for...