The simple way to help your kids face their fears, handle big emotions, and bolster their social skills—from the
New York Times
bestselling co-author of
The Whole-Brain Child
and a renowned play therapist
“A parenting guide as useful as it is scientifically sound,
The Way of Play
is a gift for anyone who cares about human development and the growth-promoting importance of having fun in life!”—Daniel J. Siegel, MD
Most parents understand that free, unstructured playtime is great for children’s development. What they may not know is that playful interaction
with parents
is also a powerful way for kids to cultivate healthy emotional development and resilience. Kids often want their parents to play with them, but many parents don’t know how to play or see it only as an (often boring) way to kill time.
Playing with your kids doesn’t have to mean enrolling in countless parent-and-me classes or getting on all fours and making toy car sounds; the little daily moments together can make the most impact. In
The Way of Play,
world-renowned pediatric therapists and play experts Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent break down seven simple, playful techniques that harness this caregiving magic in only a few minutes each day:
•
Leaning in to emotions
helps children let go of anxieties, drama, and chaotic behavior.
Tuning in to the body
teaches children to practice the art of surfing sensory waves.
Storytelling
promotes better problem-solving.
Thinking out loud
fosters calmer thinking and stronger communication with parents, siblings, and everyone else.
Full of science-backed research, real-life stories, and charming line illustrations to bring this novel advice to life,
will help you nurture your kids and encourage them to become calm listeners, cooperative problem solvers, and respectful communicators. Just as important, it will help your whole family have more fun together and build stronger relationships
.