Informed by international research along with contrasting perspectives on different forms of play, this book emphasises the importance of play to children, and the opportunities that play provides for learning and development.

Section 1: Principles of Playful Teaching and Learning
Chapter 1 Why Playful Teaching and Learning? - Glenda Walsh
Chapter 2 Mental Models of Early Years Practice: Digging Deeper - Liz Sproule
Chapter 3 Pillars of Practice for Playful Teaching and Learning - Glenda Walsh
Section 2: Playful Teaching and Learning across the Curriculum
Chapter 4 Playful Thinking in Action: Tools for Cultivating Children's Thinking - Carol McGuinness
Chapter 5 Playful Pedagogies in Early Childhood Mathematics - Ross Ó Corráin and Elizabeth Dunphy
Chapter 6 Playful Approaches to Literacy - Catherine Gilliland
Chapter 7 Growing the Child in the Playful Setting - Marion Dowling and Glenda Walsh
Chapter 8 Playful Learning in Natural Outdoor Environments - Richard Greenwood
Chapter 9 ICT Made Playful - Christine Stephen
Chapter 10 Playful Approaches to Science and Technology - Andrea Doherty and John McCullagh
Section 3: The Role of the Playful Professional
Chapter 11 Hopeful Intentions: Planning for Playful Teaching and Learning - Jacqueline Fallon
Chapter 12 Assessment in the Playful Teaching and Learning Experience - Glenda Walsh and Elizabeth Sproule
Chapter 13 Towards the Playful Professional - Dorothy McMillan