Dr Judy van Heerden, senior lecturer in the ECE department of the Faculty of Education at the University of Pretoria and Dr Anienie Veldsman (University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand) are the editors. Dr van Heerden authored one and co-authored two chapters of the book.

Rethinking learning through play, emphasises and discusses the importance of learning through play for young learners such as Grade R and younger, before starting formal schooling. The book has a strong theoretical foundation as well as a focus on best practice. Rethinking learning through play is an essential resource for pre-service students and teachers who value the development and optimal learning of young children. The book offers practical guidelines in applying playful learning by creating suitable learning environments and presenting developmentally appropriate activities in the daily programme to encourage physical and active participation in young children.

Six international and 13 South African authors contributed to the 17 chapters inspired by the questions: “Why play and learning, what is play and why is it important, where, when and how do children play and how can we support learning through play in other ways”? The nature, place and role of play and views of various theorists give a sound base for the chapters. Topics covered in the book are inquiry-based learning through play and integrating science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics as well as language through play based-learning. Chapters are also devoted to sensory play, sensory integration and using music and movement to learn through play. Learning about ‘myself’ and developing executive functioning skills through play, play and indigenous knowledge, accommodating diversity and inclusivity through play, preparing children for life through play and using toy libraries are relevant topics covered.  A special chapter has been devoted to digital and imaginative technology, to support and not as a substitute for play-based learning. Creativity, curiosity, physical exploration, sense of wonder and problem solving are among the aspects that the authors value highly and would like to convey through the book.