July 23, 2004

By: Ryan Alton
Website: http://www.1st-in-toys.com

Researchers Report: 'Play is Under Attack'

Never has there been a more critical time to preserve play for our nation’s youth, says the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF), the philanthropic organization primarily supported by the North American toy industry. This statement comes as a result of recent research introduced by Yale’s Center in Child Development and Social Policy. Parents as Teachers, the nation’s leading child development experts, agree.

Each of these national nonprofits has noticed a decreasing emphasis on play in the lives of children and adults. Concerned that children, particularly homeless children, were missing out on a key component to healthy development, the two national nonprofits decided to fight back. Together they are taking 'The Power of Play' – a national umbrella initiative designed to elevate play in children’s lives – to families living in shelters in Maryland, Michigan and Texas this summer.

We know that many groups are already addressing the critical needs for food, clothing and shelter, says Terri Bartlett, executive director of the Toy Industry Foundation. No one is in a better position to bring the fun, fascination and sheer enjoyment of play to a young child's life than the Toy Industry Foundation. This, combined with the award-winning success of Parents as Teachers, solidified a partnership to bring the healing power of play to the children and families living in homeless institutions served through their national community.

More than 3,500 Parents as Teachers program sites operate nationwide, according to Susan S. Stepleton, president and CEO of the National Center. Last year these programs served nearly half a million children. It was this nationwide reach, combined with the organization’s 20 years of experience that made it an attractive partner to the Toy Industry Foundation.

Also see: Kids Toys

About The Author:

Ryan Alton is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-toys.com.  Find fun kids educational toys and childrens wooden toys you enjoyed as a child.