Nature's Playthings

London Play has often argued that for many children that have lost the freedom to roam and play it will take a generation to get it back.

This book is a timely reminder from a previous generation (written by a self-confessed ex-tomboy grandmother) of the fun to be had just doing what you want in the natural environment. It will be invaluable for play rangers or outreach play workers in parks, as well as parents and children.

I was once roundly abused by some childcare workers on a training day when I extolled the virtue, purpose and use of play fighting: they said I was out of date. I have an ally here: the author suggests details of how to enjoy playing King of the Castle, scrumping (taking apples from trees), making itching powder, bows and arrows, conker fighting, pea-shooters and things for boys to tangle in girls hair, with not a legal disclaimer or word of caution in sight.