Play is important for children's development and there are inherent characteristics that underpin professional play practice across contexts. Providing an overarching concept of play, drawing together the evidence-base across disciplines and linking theory to practice, The Essence of Play is the ideal handbook for all those working with children. 'This is an important book. Based on new ground-breaking research into children's perspectives on play, Howard & McInnes present revolutionary guidelines for play practice. This book has the potential to transform understandings about children's playfulness, and, in particular, about how this vital ingredient in the growth of learning and well-being can be practically supported and nurtured within educational, recreational and therapeutic settings.'-Dr David Whitebread, Senior Lecturer in Developmental Psychology & Early Childhood Education, University of Cambridge, UK.