As fewer children have access to natural play areas, and as health and educational professionals increasingly realize the value of play in both physical and emotional development, this collection of essays on play provides a timely look at current trends in play theory and practice. Editors Mary Ruth Moore and Constance Sabo-Risley continue to build on the work of Joe L. Frost, the father of play advocacy, in this second volume in the Play in American Life series. The work of leaders in play theory — including Frost, Stuart Brown, Joan Almon, and Fran Maniella â is examined. Other essays look at play as a classroom tool and a lifelong benefit. A special feature of this volume is the inclusion of essay written by Frost Scholars and Fellows. Specific articles include âPlaying to Heal: The Importance of Play for Children with Grief â by Clarissa Lauren Salinas; âLearning to Play, Learning about Play: A Chinese Studentâs Experiences as a Playleader in the U.S.â by ChaoYi Wang; and âPoliticizing Play: Public School Integration in Hoxieâ by Sharon L Herbers and Danielle J. Alsandor. Educators, students, and parents will all find meaningful information in the essays in this volume.