The Sacred Urge to Play Book | Signed | AU Made

The Sacred Urge to Play: Unfolding your child's intelligence, imagination, creativity and joy for life. A guide book to play for parents and teachers of young children from 0-7 years. Within the pages of this book you’ll find all you need to make play central in the lives of your own children and/or in the lives of the children you teach.

Neuroscientists have isolated three pivotal factors for “a complex brain to create itself” during the first seven years of life. The first factor isemotional nurture, that warm, empathetic relationship that grows into trust in human beings. Along with emotional nurture goes conversation; the child and adult enjoy each other’s company, they enjoy talking together. The third factor is play and lots of it.  

​The living and learning that happen through play offers each child their best chance for health, happiness, and success in education and living - both now and in the future. There is no hurry for ‘school’ learning. Study after study shows that leaving formal cognitively-based learning until after the brain has laid down the foundations required for abstract learning gives our children a ‘head’ start. Soft cover, 192 pages, 210mm X 163mm Published in 2016 by Good Egg Books, Thames, New Zealand  Signed by Pennie Brownlee! About Pennie Brownlee Pennie is the mother of one, grandmother of two, and she began her primary school teaching career way back in 1967.
Her early childhood experience began with motherhood, and it grew when their daughter Clare and her attending Thames-Parawai Playcentre in 1975.They both loved it so much and it was there Pennie had the time and space to observe what happens when children play and learn.

After five years of observing many children's creativity unfolding, she wrote "Magic Places: An Adults' Guide to Young Children's Creativity".
In 2004, 2006, 2013 & 2014 Pennie attended Summer Schools at the Emmi Pikler Institute in Budapest, Hungary. There her eyes were opened to what respect really looks like with infants, toddlers and young children. Wanting to share the information that so inspired her, she wrote "Dance With Me in the Heart: An Adults' Guide to Great Infant-Parent Partnerships". Pennie has been facilitating workshops for parents and teachers, and parent classes and retreats throughout New Zealand. She is an absolutely lovely lady, truly inspirational. Get a copy of one of her books and find out more.

The Sacred Urge to Play Book | Signed | AU Made: A Celebration of Play and Creativity

The Sacred Urge to Play is a beautifully crafted book that delves into the essential role of play in our lives, particularly its importance in childhood development. Written with passion and insight, this book is a tribute to the power of play to inspire creativity, emotional growth, and learning. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone interested in child development, The Sacred Urge to Play explores how play shapes a child's sense of self, connection, and discovery.

This signed edition of The Sacred Urge to Play is a special, collectible version of the book that has been personally autographed by the author. Produced in Australia, this limited edition carries a unique value and is a meaningful gift for those who appreciate the intersection of education, creativity, and culture.

Understanding the Importance of Play in Child Development

At the heart of The Sacred Urge to Play is the understanding that play is not just a fun pastime but an essential activity that nurtures cognitive, social, and emotional development. The book emphasizes how free, imaginative play fuels curiosity, problem-solving skills, and social competence. Through stories, research, and personal experiences, the author makes a compelling case for why play should be treated as a vital component of a child's education and daily life.

In addition to promoting the development of important skills, play also provides an opportunity for children to process their emotions, explore their creativity, and build confidence. The book explores how these early play experiences leave a lasting impact on how children approach the world and interact with others.

A Beautifully Written Tribute to Childhood

The Sacred Urge to Play is written with warmth, humor, and insight, making it an enjoyable read for anyone passionate about childhood development. The book is filled with personal anecdotes, reflective exercises, and thought-provoking insights into the transformative power of play. It encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to view play not as an optional activity, but as a sacred and integral part of raising healthy, balanced children.

The author explores a variety of types of play, from solo play to group play, and its diverse forms, such as imaginative play, physical play, and outdoor exploration. The book celebrates the variety of ways children engage with the world and provides valuable guidance on how to foster environments where play can thrive.

Signed Edition for Collectors and Fans

For those who appreciate the added personal touch of a signed book, this edition of The Sacred Urge to Play is a truly special offering. The signed copy adds a level of personal connection to the work, making it an ideal gift for those interested in child development, play theory, or the broader role of creativity in human life. It’s a wonderful keepsake for anyone who wants to commemorate their journey of understanding the importance of play.

The signed edition is a limited release, making it a unique collector’s item for those who value both the content and the experience of owning a personally signed book from the author.

AU Made with Local Craftsmanship

Proudly made in Australia, The Sacred Urge to Play is a testament to local craftsmanship and quality. From the design and printing to the binding and packaging, the book is produced with care and attention to detail. By choosing this book, readers are supporting local businesses and helping to promote Australian talent in the literary and publishing fields.

The Australian-made aspect adds an extra layer of pride to the book, making it even more meaningful for readers who value locally sourced and produced goods. Whether it's a gift for a friend, a parent, or an educator, the book serves as a tribute to the Australian literary landscape.

A Meaningful Gift for Parents, Educators, and Play Enthusiasts

This signed edition of The Sacred Urge to Play makes an excellent gift for anyone who is passionate about early childhood development, education, or the importance of play in life. It’s perfect for parents looking to understand more about the role of play in their child’s development, as well as for educators who want to incorporate more playful learning experiences into their classrooms.

Whether you're gifting it for a special occasion or giving it as a thoughtful gesture to someone interested in child psychology, education, or play theory, this book is a meaningful and impactful present.

A Guide to Incorporating Play into Everyday Life

The book not only explains the importance of play but also provides practical suggestions for incorporating play into everyday life. The author offers advice on how to create environments that encourage creative and exploratory play, as well as ideas for simple activities that can stimulate the imagination and spark curiosity.

For parents and caregivers, The Sacred Urge to Play serves as both an informative guide and an inspiring call to action. It encourages the reader to prioritize play as an essential part of their child’s upbringing, offering practical ideas for fostering creativity, joy, and curiosity.