Authors: Vivien L. Geneser and Melissa M. Day-Mifflin

Illustrations by: Allison L. Geneser and Benjamin W. Geneser

ISBN: 979-8-9894097-8-5

About the Book: 

Developing the skills to implement a playful curriculum requires knowing how children learn through play and having ideas for activities that offer ways to teach with a playful perspective. Play in Educational Settings: Implementing Playful Lessons provides a comprehensive and inclusive guide for educators and administrators who serve children in early childhood settings and elementary grades. In this intriguing book, readers will learn how play impacts all the domains of development and glean ideas for implementing playful lessons that meet the requirements for educational standards at the state and national levels.

Each chapter contains interesting narratives, colorful images, charts and graphs, and suggestions for materials that will assist teachers in aligning playful activities with standards. Whether purchased as a textbook for preservice teachers or as a resource for teachers in schools, the reader will benefit from the information, suggestions for activities, and checklists.

Dr. Geneser

Vivien L. Geneser, PhD has implemented a playful approach to teaching at all levels, from preschool to university, including a stint as an Associate Professor of Early Childhood Education at Texas A&M-San Antonio. Currently, she is a Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Texas State University, where she teaches Play in Educational Settings for Diverse Learners. Dr. Geneser previously served as the lead editor for Early Years (Texas Association for the Education of Young Children) and the IPA-USA-eJournal (International Play Association-United States Affiliate). She has published numerous articles and book chapters and presented at regional, state, national, and international conferences. She is the author of Promoting Teaching and Learning Through Play (Kendall-Hunt)and the editor of Scholarly Snapshots: Affirming the Importance of the Child’s Right to Play (Rowman & Littlefield).

Dr. Day-Mifflin

Melissa M. Day-Mifflin is an Assistant Director of Preclinical Field Experiences at UTSA. She has taught in an early childhood classroom for 12 years and has facilitated the Foundations of Effective Teaching course for five years. She has taught children and adults throughout her career. She has been a lecturer and clinical teacher supervisor. She obtained her PhD in Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching with a cognate in Early Childhood Education from UTSA. Dr. Day-Mifflin is currently serving as assistant editor of the Early Years journal. Dr. Day-Mifflin’s research interests are the affordances of nature play and looking at STEM concepts through free play. She is passionate about the continued growth and improvement of teachers and teacher candidates. She believes that through purposeful and playful teaching, children can reach their fullest potential.