Free to Learn

By Peter Gray,

Book cover of Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life

Book description

In Free to Learn , developmental psychologist Peter Gray argues that in order to foster children who will thrive in today's constantly changing world, we must entrust them to steer their own learning and development. Drawing on evidence from anthropology, psychology, and history, he demonstrates that free play is the…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Free to Learn as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

An evolutionary psychologist, Gray argues that human children, like all mammals, learn best through play. He advocates for a learning process that is kid- and play-driven. Using an innovative school as a model, Gray makes a compelling case for revolutionizing education by putting it in the hands of the kids themselves. Even if you can’t send your child to one of these schools, this book will give you many ideas on how to let your kids take charge of their own academic interests and pursuits which will ultimately help them grow up to take better charge of their own lives…

From Sara's list on raising self-reliant children.

Want books like Free to Learn?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 68 books like Free to Learn.

Browse books like Free to Learn

Book cover of Free-Range Kids: How Parents and Teachers Can Let Go and Let Grow
Book cover of Mommy Laid An Egg: Or, Where Do Babies Come From?
Book cover of How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,593

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in play and playing, child psychology, and child development?

Play And Playing 20 books
Child Psychology 21 books