You might ask if we REALLY need a book to remind us how to play?

Sadly, I think that the answer is YES! We need print resources to remind parents, grandparents, and community members the importance of unplugged play.

My top pick is this encyclopedia of a book…”Unplugged Play” by Bobbi Conner

“Unplugged Play: No Batteries. No Plugs. Pure fun.” is a book that every home, child care center, or after school program should own. This book spans the ages of 12 months to 10 years, and the sections are broken up into toddler, preschool, and grade school which helps both new parents and providers in figuring out age appropriate games and activities.This easy to read book lays out hundreds and hundreds of ideas to help inspire PLAY with imagination, creativity, movement, and the best medicine of all, belly laughs.

“Unplugged Play” is essentially like an encyclopedia of information for families and care providers that will last for years! The books suggestions on how to stock the toy cupboard can help at families decided on what types of toys and materials to invest in for their child! 

Let’s put PLAY back into the driver’s seat of our children’s lives. Instead of buying them a new digital device, educational app, or some other toy with bells and whistles….consider giving children the best gift…unplugged PLAY!

 

Additional books for inspiring traditional play:

99 1/2 Creepy Crawly Jokes, Riddles, and Nonsense by Holly Kowitt

Anna Banana 101 Jump Rope Rhymes – Joanna Cole

Book of Cards for Kids by Gail MacColl

Crazy Eights and Other Card Games – Joanna Cole & Stephanie Calmenson

Eentsy, Weentsy Spider: Fingerplays and Action Rhymes – Joanna Cole & Stephanie Calmenson

Fun on the Run: Travel Games and Songs – Joanna Cole & Stephanie Calmenson

Hand Clap! “Miss Mary Mack” and 42 Other Hand-Clapping Games for Kids by Sara Bernstein

Let’s Play: Traditional Games of Childhood by Dusan Petricic & Camilla Gryski

Marc Brown’s Favorite Hand Rhymes

Pat-A-Cake and Other Play Rhymes – Joanna Cole & Stephanie Calmenson

Pin the Tail on the Donkey and Other Party Games – Joanna Cole & Stephanie Calmenson

String Games by Richard Darsie

Unplugged Play: No Batteries. No Plugs. Pure Fun. by Bobbi Conner