The role of play in child development is a source of ongoinginterest and debate. In this book, renowned expert Peter Smithoffers an expansive definition of the term ?play?,taking an in-depth look at its impact on children, as well as itsadaptive value for birds and mammals, including primates. Using both contemporary and classic research, Smith examines howdifferent age groups and sexes participate in a wide variety ofplay, including exercise and rough-and- tumble play, fantasy playand imaginary friends, and play with objects. The book gauges thefunction of play in early childhood education and makes the casefor and against recess breaks in school. How play occurs indifferent societies and among various populations ? includingchildren with special needs ? is also explored. With its comprehensive coverage of theoretical, historical,cross-cultural, and evolutionary perspectives, Children andPlay holds significant insights for parents, educators, andclinicians.