Taking a rights-based approach to the interdependence of play and health in childhood, this text argues that the child's right to health and development cannot be satisfied without also the fulfilment of their right to play.
Underpinned by theory and real-life case studies drawn from practice, Whitaker and Tonkin present what is known about the benefits of play with its potential to address the pressing health needs in the short- and long-term of the youngest generation. They define and discuss the concepts of childhood, play, health and human rights before exploring how play interacts with the four fundamental principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child: non-discrimination; best interests; life, survival and development; inclusion and participation. The book then investigates how practitioners can advocate for the child's right to play to meet all their health and development needs. It presents numerous examples of best practice from a range of settings - including hospitals, schools, community centres, charities, families and more - and incorporates the voices of children as they imagine a future in which play is elevated to a central position in their lives, allowing for the achievement of lifelong health and happiness.
Exploring children's rights from a practical perspective, this accessible book is essential reading for students and practitioners in healthcare, social work, community work, early years and education.
About the Author: Julia Whitaker has a background in social work, family therapy and healthcare play specialism, with over 35 years' practice and teaching experience in both public and private sectors. She is presently the registration coordinator for the Healthcare Play Specialist Education Trust (HPSET). This is Julia's fourth collaboration with Alison Tonkin; previous works have focused on the impact of play and playfulness on health and wellbeing across the lifespan (Routledge, 2016, 2019, 2021).
Alison Tonkin is Head of Higher Education at Stanmore College, UK, Alison has a research background in health promotion for pre-school children, has worked as a diagnostic and a therapeutic radiographer and currently teaches childcare and health and social care at the College.
