Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood

by Amanda Morgan, Dale C. Farran PhD (Foreword)

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction

162 pages, Paperback

Published May 6, 2025

Reviews

[Kylee Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could give this 10 stars. Educators of every level would benefit from reading this book. It is jam packed with research and inspiring teaching philosophy. Play is essential.

[Kylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I began searching for a preschool for my oldest, I looked for who would help my child reach their academic potential the best. Then I walked into their current preschool and knew I had been thinking about it all wrong. The school led me to this book to help understand what it is they are doing. Much of what is outlined in Morgan’s book I have witnessed firsthand and now understand why the do things such as invitations. A great read to expand your knowledge on the importance of play supported by research.

[Nawal Ciaramitaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Not Just Cute, Amanda Morgan explains in layman's terms the need for play in early childhood development. For children, play is an essential component to success in educational settings and navigating social situations as they grow. Instead of focusing on whether children can sit still and memorize facts, play encourages children to imagine, discover, and negotiate the world they live in, leading to greater success educationally, socially, and emotionally.

[Stacy Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda Morgan has written an accessible, easy to read book about the importance of play for all children. As an Early Childhood Educator, this book is informative to my practice and something that I could share with parents and families. Thank you for writing this book!

[R Scott Wiley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that emphasizes the importance of play in the preschool classroom - with research to support conclusions. Play is the tool and learning is the outcome. They are not in opposition to one another.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

An introduction to why play matters in preschool settings. Nothing new, if we've been paying attention, but good for the skeptical parent, teacher, or care-giver. If you're looking for more in-depth research, check out Killing Monsters by Gerard Jones.