When Play Was Play: Why Pick-up Games Matter

by Ronald Bishop

A celebration of childhood pick-up games.

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 9, 2009

Reviews

[José Antonio Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ronald Bishop's book is a comprehensive description of the evolution of play in the last 40 years. Starting from his own personal experience, enriched with recollections from about 150 voluntary contributors, Bishop tries to show how free play (pick-up games to be more precise) have vanish in today's overschedule, goal oriented, screen kids.

It is difficult to affirm that there has been a negative shift in children's play, nonetheless the evidence points in that direction. Bishop's work is mostly qualitative, relying on some theoretical work as support, yet lacks quantitative base either from his own field or bibliographical research.

When Play was Play is a good starting point for those who are concern with the gap between generations. Yet, it is too general for people with deep interests in the field.

One of the most valuable parts of When Play was Play is Bishop's closing summary:

"pass the joy of play on to your kids; don’t keep it to yourselves. It may take some effort, since the narrative we tell each other about the wonders of organized activities is so entrenched. Don’t make play an organized affair designed to help them achieve. Don’t become part of movements that advocate for play. Cancel the play dates, keep them home from camp, let them run around in the back yard, make forts out of boxes, and stare at the clouds—and whatever you do, don’t ever write the words “play time” on your calendar or Blackberry.
Let them play—no, really, just let them play. The way they want to."