Adventures In Risky Play

Rusty Keeler’s terrific book will inspire parents and caregivers to raise courageous, resilient children and young adults — with a little help from nature.

– Richard Louv, Author of Our Wild Calling and Last Child in the Woods

I love that Rusty is taking us on a journey to turn “no” into a “yes.” I have a backpack that is with me on my travels of books that are crucial to my soul. This book will be added, you might want to add it also.”

– Daniel Hodgins, author of Boys: Changing the Classroom, Not the Child and Get Over It! Relearning Guidance Practices

“This is a book that encourages you to completely change the way you think about how children could and should play. As Rusty points out, the greatest barrier to children playing is often we adults and our hang-ups and concerns yet overcoming those is not only possible but essential if our children are to get the most from their play experiences. Prepare to be challenged.”

– Marc Armitage, Playworker, Independent Children’s Play Advocate & Consultant

Rusty Keeler is talking straight to the loving and often worries hearts and minds of teachers who want their children to have extensive, rich play in the outdoors. He understands the fears, uncertainties, and unwarranted limitations that hamper teachers, directors, and parents. If we mindfully observe what children are doing and intending to do, framed by risk-and-benefit, we offer them a way to grow up experienced and confident.

– Mary S. Rivkin, Professor Emerita, Early Childhood Education, UMBC

Rusty Keeler is the undisputed king of risky play. His work, both as a theorist and designer causes us to re-think what it means for a child to be free to play — really play. This book invites you to reassess your relationship with children and their need to challenge themselves, physically, socially, and emotionally. You’ll be inspired!

– Teacher Tom Hobson, author of Teacher Tom’s First Book and Teacher Tom’s Second Book