Book excerpt: Most people take the task of talking and playing with children for granted. This is until they encounter a young child that they have to interact with. As the skill of talking and playing with young children is not something that we are born with, this book clearly describes the necessary skills that are needed to carry out the task. In the course of the text, information is also given on the benefits of interacting with children, and also how play can be used in a therapeutic manner.