1. Critically assess the importance of play and its impact on development.
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Summarize key perspectives and theorists on children’s spirituality
Knowledge and Understanding

3. Analyse the value of play and creativity in spiritual development and worship.
Analysis

4. Develop creative responses for structured and unstructured play using an appropriate selection from a wide range of resources for ministry
Application
Problem Solving

5. Summarize the potential of play and creativity for self-expression and developing awareness. Reflection

A coursework assignment of 3000 words weighted at 100%

[Learning Outcomes 1-5]

This module explores the importance of a variety of forms of play (both structured and unstructured) in human development and its role in children’s spirituality.

Teaching will address:
• Perspectives on children’s spirituality
• The spirituality of play and related theological and philosophical constructs
• Planning for and facilitating structured, unstructured and non-competitive play
• Use and reflection of playframes
• Risk, achievement and learning through play and creativity
• Outdoor, adventure, sport and team play
• Technology - play and creativity
• Imagination and fantasy versus reality
• The transformative nature of play/creativity as therapy and emotional literacy
• Socialisation and stereotyping in relation to human development

This module incorporates several inter-related learning strategies. The interactive learning groups will provide lectures and seminars involving a combination of group activities, student led work, simulations, skills practice, discussion etc. The independent study provides opportunity for reading, library based and online research. The remote learning in the practice work place will help develop professional ministry skills.

Adams, K., Hyde, B. & Woolley, R. (2008) The Spiritual Dimension of Childhood. London: Jessica Kingsley.

Anthony, D. (2013) Play. The Oxford Handbook of Develeopmental Psychology. Vol 2.

Axline, V. (1990) Dibs in Search of Self: Personality Development in Play Therapy. Harmondsworth: Penguin Books.

Berryman, J. (1995) Godly Play: An Imaginative Approach to Religious Education. San Francisco: Harper.

Brown, S (2010) Play: How it Shapes the Brain. London, Penguin

Brown, F. & Taylor, C. (ed) 2008. Foundations of Playwork. Maidenhead: OUP.

Edgar, B (2017) The God Who Plays: A Playful Approach to Theology and Spirituality. Oregon, Cascade

Hyde, D. (2008) Children and Spirituality: Searching for Meaning and Connectedness. London: Jessica Kingsley

Kilvington, J. & Wood, A. (2010) Reflective Playwork. London: Continuum.

Knight, S. (2011) Forest School for All. London, Sage.

Nye, R. (2009) Children’s Spirituality: What it is and why it matters, London: Church House Publishing.

Interactive whiteboard and data projectors
On-site library and internet access to Staffordshire University Library
Access to internet connected PCs
Appropriately equipped and accessible lecture rooms
Practice based: appropriately equipped office/study space, admin support, meeting rooms, art/craft resources, volunteer team

None