Deborah D. Gray

Games and Activities for Attaching With Your Child is a critical tool for anyone who is looking to nurture attachment with an adopted, biological or foster child. Deborah D. Gray, an expert in the field of attachment and adoption, along with her co-workers, have written an easily understandable and accessible book about games that can help children attach even in the most difficult of circumstances. They clearly lay out the importance of play for children and how it supports brain show more development, good social skills and the ability to connect with loved ones in order to aid in healthy connections. Step-by-step, from infancy to teens, they lay out activities for families to play in a fun, engaging and meaningful manner. What I like best is that it tells you how to use these activities for children all across the spectrum, from "normal" children to those who are detached and afraid to connect and have been hurt by trauma. As a social worker I have used some of games and activities with my own clients to excellent effect but best of all, have shown parents how to play with their children where it counts the most which is with each other at home. As a foster mom I can say that these games work and have enhanced my relationships with my children.

Thank you Edelweiss for allowing me to review this book for an honest opinion. show less

This was a great book. I especially liked the tone Ms. Gray took towards children who have been adopted out of difficult circumstances. She is hopeful and suggests concrete tools that give parents and children control over their lives and emotions. She suggests ways to integrate the past while still moving forward healthily. I really felt like she had a secure handle on the challenges that our family has faced and was confident that there are workable solutions to many common difficulties. I show more wish we lived in Washington!! show less