The Importance of Play in the Lives of Children (and Parents)

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Speaker: Lawrence J. Cohen, Ph.D., the author of PLAYFUL PARENTING and THE OPPOSITE OF WORRY, is a licensed psychologist specializing in children's play and play therapy
Location:
The Gallery at Villageworks 525 Mass Ave #200 West Acton, MA
Cost: Free; $5 suggested donation at the door

Play is where children live, and it is the main way that they learn. Parents and teachers can visit children in this play zone, for the purpose of forging closer connections, promoting learning, and just having fun. This talk, presented in conjunction with First Connections, will discuss dramatic play, physical play, and play to solve behavior problems and heal from emotional upsets. You will discover how to "learn from the natives" when you visit children's world of play, and you will find more relaxation and joy in parenting and teaching. 

Lawrence J. Cohen, Ph.D., the author of PLAYFUL PARENTING and THE OPPOSITE OF WORRY, is a licensed psychologist specializing in children's play and play therapy. In addition to his private therapy practice, he is also an international speaker and consultant to public and independent schools and community organizations. Dr. Cohen is also the co-author, with Anthony DeBenedet, of The Art of Roughhousing. He wrote two books about children's friendships and peer relationships with Michael Thompson and Catherine O'Neill Grace: Best Friends, Worst Enemies, and Mom, They're Teasing Me. His books have been translated into fourteen languages. 
Dr. Cohen attended Haverford College and received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Duke University. Dr. Cohen lives in Boston, Massachusetts. He and his wife Liz have two grown children and a granddaughter.