Play Games with Me

Chen has created a wonderfully interactive book that perfectly captures the energy and enthusiasm of childhood play! I knew we needed to add this book to our library as soon as I saw it because my family loved “Play Outside with Me” which was also by Kat Chen. Play Games With Me immediately invites participation, which is exactly what young readers need to stay engaged and develop positive associations with books.
What I love about this approach is how it breaks down the barrier between reader and text. Instead of passive consumption, children become active participants in the story. My children love to interact with the main character, practicing social skills without even realizing it.
From a developmental perspective, this book supports so many crucial skills - following directions, physical coordination, imagination, and social interaction. The games suggested are simple enough for very young children but engaging enough to hold interest across age ranges.
The illustrations are bright, energetic, and perfectly complement the active nature of the text. Chen uses visual cues effectively to support the interactive elements, making the book accessible even for pre-readers who can follow along through pictures.
What makes this book particularly valuable is how it models different types of play and social interaction. In our screen-heavy world, books that encourage physical activity and imaginative play are precious resources. We've used this book as inspiration for rainy day activities. Overall, this book brings pure joy and has become a go-to resource for interactive reading time.