Play in Childhood

'[This] is a seminal book that continues to exert a strong influence on how play is viewed today. Play is described by Lowenfeld as an essential function of childhood basically concerned with the adaptive process; related to that process which must continue throughout life and which profoundly affects mans ability to survive In the conclusion of the book, Lowenfeld stated unequivocally that without adequate opportunity for play, normal and satisfactory emotional development is not possible. Honoring play as a healing modality was one of Lowenfelds original contributions. Even though play was being used by child therapists when this book was written, play in and of itself was not recognised as therapeutic and healing Some therapists even viewed it as a defence mechanism. "Play in Childhood" paved the way for an expanded view of the childs most natural impulse.' From Rie Rogers Mitchell and Harriet S. Friedman, "Sandplay: Past, Present and Future".