At Playvolution HQ, we believe Peter Gray’s 5 Conditions Of Play is the most concise and clear working definition of play. Furthermore, his book Free To Learn is one of the best books on play in decades. All early learning professionals should read it. In the book, he expands on this November 19, 2008, post to his Freedom To Learn blog entitled The Value of Play I: The Definition of Play Gives Insights (another everyone-who-spends-time-with-children-should-read item).
We know that not everyone has the time or inclination to do so much reading. With that in mind, we’ve put together this handout featuring a truncated explanation of Gray’s 5 Conditions Of Play, excerpted from the above-mentioned blog post.
We also hope this handout will inspire some to dig deeper and check out Gray’s original works.
Peter Gray’s 5 Conditions Of Play Handout
Is It Real Play, Play-Like, Or Not Play?
This handout may prove helpful in distinguishing real play from play-like activity:
Contribute content to Playvolution HQ
Brought to you by Explorations Early Learning
Browse Trainings
Author
Jeff Johnson is an early learning trainer, podcaster, and author who founded Explorations Early Learning, Playvolution HQ, and Play Haven.
In-Person And Online Training
Learn how to book an in-person or online training for your organization on these early learning topics.
Support The Site
I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees
by linking to Amazon.com and affiliate sites.
Thanks To Our Patrons
This post was made possible by patrons like these, who generously fund our work:
Supporters
Lissadell Greene Stephanie Goloway
Lagina Kozak Michelle Hankins
Marie Messinger Tamara L. Lakin
Bertha Sayaloune
Fans
Jen Flemming Lizz Nolasco
Susan Warner Kelly Sigalove
Vittoria Jimerson Codee Gilbert
Monica Morrell Pam Soloman Melissa Franklin
Teresa Watson Erika Felt Autumn Peele
Melissa Taylor Jahmeela Robinson
Amber Maurina Terra Calamari Anne Jackson
Lagina Kozak Samantha Yeager-Cheevers
Elizebeth McCoy Sammy Cousens Ellen Cogan
Leave a Reply