A designer, educator, and play expert calls for adults to
add more fun, exploration, and imagination to their lives
Were all born playful. But when we grow up,
we learn to suppress this critical, hardwired instinct and our lives become
ruled by getting things done. As world-famous designer Cas
Holman explains, this disconnection from our playful selves is hazardous to
everything from our emotional wellbeing to our ability to problem solve and
innovate. The emerging science of play shows that it sparks joy, wonder, creativity,
and insight at any age. It is through play that we shape our identities and
continue to evolve at every stage of our lives.
We think were making room for play we join a
pickup sports game, catch a new movie, or go out to dinner for fun. But here,
Holman advocates for a deeper level of free play through open-ended, unstructured activities that we become
absorbed in with no obvious goal or purpose. The
ways we can play are endless and what recharges us most is unique to each of
us: whether its a piece of art we create, an
entertaining conversation with a stranger, or an experiment to shake up a task
we take for granted. Holman shows us how to adopt a playful mindset and
incorporate everyday moments of play into all areas of our lives so that we can
destress, recharge, connect with each other, and grow as creative individuals.
The power of play can buffer us in bleak times, and it can make our working
lives far more fulfilling, helping us explore without fear of failure and
consider new ways of thinking.
Playful draws on psychology, history, art, and design thinking to
make a powerful case for the vital importance of play for grown-ups in a world
obsessed with productivity. Provocative, wise, and full of spirit,
it will inspire you to (re) learn how to play.
About the Author
Cas Holman is the founder and chief designer of
the toy company Heroes Will Rise and a former Professor of
Industrial Design at RISD. Cas travels the globe speaking about early
education, the design process, and the value of play in all aspects of life.
She has shared her perspective in workshops and seminars
with teams at Google, Nike, LEGO Foundation, Disney Imagineering, and more.
Some of her designs include toys like Rigamajig and structures at the Highline
and the Liberty Science center. Cas lives in New York City and designs from her
studio in Brooklyn.
