Understanding Kids, Play, and Interactive Design

Abstract

"Fortunately for us, Mark Schlichting has created this marvelous book. By understanding and thoughtfully explaining what children do in the Kingdom of Play, and how and why they do it, Mark has provided a wonderful resource to those of us who would create fresh, invigorating playthings."-Jesse Schell, CEO, Schell Games; Distinguished Professor of the Practice of Entertainment Technology, Carnegie Mellon University; author of The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses "Mark Schlichting's book, Understanding Kids, Play, and Interactive Design, combines deep wisdom about kids at play; comprehensive, clear (rare) understanding of play and "play science;" and the manifold practical routes to interactive game design. It is the magnum opus of a creative lifetime, full of usable details framed in engaging and visually captivating formats. As one steeped in the biology of play and its necessity for overall human well-being, Mark's book pioneers the blend of ever present technology with culture-enhancing guidance for the next generation of play-savvy designers. Belongs on every kids' play/game designer's bedside table."-Stuart Brown, M.D., Founder and President, The National Institute for Play; author of Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul "Children play in order to have fun, not to learn; but learning is the side effect that, from an evolutionary perspective, is play's purpose. In this book, Mark Schlichting reveals a remarkably sophisticated and accessible understanding of play, learning, and children, including differences among children related to age, gender, culture, and personality. This book will go a long way toward connecting game designers to the minds of children."