This indispensible guide uses a unique glossary format to explore some of the key themes in play in early childhood, many of which regularly arise for students, tutors, parents and practitioners. As well as covering key concepts, theories and influential figures in the field, the book considers important aspects of each construct and highlights the complexity of play in early childhood. Each section of the book: Outlines key aspects of a construct in relation to play Includes a wide range of references Summarizes research from an international perspective Offers insights from other well known figures with expertise in play This book takes the stance that play is vital to children’s holistic development, self-efficacy and well-being and that play, and playful learning and teaching, is the essential ingredient in order for children to develop enthusiastic dispositions to learning. This positive view of play draws on the author’s extensive experience and observations of children playing in preschool settings, early years classrooms, out in the park and in different home situations. This essential reference book is vital reading for all those working and playing with young children and students on early childhood courses. “Janet Moyles consistently provides informed and valuable insights in her writing about the contested world of play. Her work is guaranteed to be informed by watching and listening to children, by her understanding of what they say and think, as well as by her wide-ranging knowledge of significant research in the field. In this, A-Z of Play in Early Childhood, Janet demonstrates her encyclopaedic knowledge of the field which will be of enormous value to those studying play who are looking for explanations, references and cross references. Indeed, the introduction should be used as a base text for those beginning their studies of play. Janet writes in a brilliantly authoritative style as she draws in research and researchers who surround quite contentious and complex issues. This is a scholarly text and is to be trusted.” Dr Kathy Goouch, Reader in Education, Canterbury Christ Church University, UK “In this fascinating and engaging text, Janet Moyles does not attempt to define play. Rather, through a deceptively simple glossary, she illustrates and explores the complexity of play in early childhood. Each entry draws on theory and research from the UK and beyond in order to outline and summarise current thinking and to support further exploration of key ideas. This text will be invaluable to early childhood students and practitioners and to all those interested in extending their thinking about play.” Professor Trisha Maynard, Director, Research Centre for Children, Families and Communities, Canterbury Christ Church University, UK “Those of us who have prepared indexes know about the serendipity of insights gained and new connections made. Here Janet Moyles shares with us her understanding and reflection on play gleaned from many years of writing about (and indexing) play. This book certainly works a useful dictionary to remind us of what (for example) ‘epistemic play’ means, but I would advise readers to approach it more playfully. The innovative index-as-chapter-heading tempts you to flick across to other sections and Moyles’s explanations and discursive comments lead your thinking out from the particular entry into wider consideration of the importance of play. The imaginative use of photographs to illustrate entries, combined with illustrative examples, helps to make distinctions between the different types/aspects of play, and unobtrusive referencing is available for those who have been inspired to pursue particular interests further.” Dr Jan Georgeson, Research Fellow in Early Education Development, Plymouth University, UK “Janet’s brilliant idea - coupled with her characteristic meticulous application - has provided early childhood education and care with a rich treasure trove: a book to use for reference, as a starting point for reflection, a spark for debate and, importantly, a reiteration of the central role of play in the lives of children.” Tricia David, Emeritus Professor, Canterbury Christ Church University, UK