Why is it important to manage aggression in young children?
Managing aggression appropriately in the early years may help decrease violent behavior later on. Almost all young children have hurtful behavior occasionally. Most children outgrow this problem by age 7, but some children, as many as 5-10% of boys, continue to have ongoing aggression that becomes more and more difficult to manage. It much easier to teach an 18 month old child how not be hurtful than an older child.

Who can use Play Nicely?
Play Nicely is designed for anyone who cares for young children ages 1-7 years.  The program has 3 separate educational tracks for parents, childcare workers/teachers, and health care professionals. Rather than waiting for behavior problems to develop, consider Play Nicely as a preventive tool for the parents of all children who are between 1 and 3 years of life, the time when aggression first starts.  To prevent violence, start early and include everyone. 

Who developed Play Nicely?
Developed at Vanderbilt University, program content is based upon material from many sources including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and the American Psychological Association. The program was improved by comments from people of different backgrounds, including preschool teachers, parents, psychologists, and health care professionals.

How is Play Nicely different from other parenting programs and violence prevention interventions?

   1) it is brief

   2) it is designed for population-based implementation in primary care clinics and preschools

   3) it can be viewed independently or in a group setting  

   4) it has been studied and found to be beneficial for parents, teachers, and health care professionals

Is there any evidence that Play Nicely works?
In published research, Play Nicely has been found to increase comfort level and knowledge of how to manage childhood aggression.  One year after receiving the program, parents reported that the program helped them manage aggression in their young child. Research documents that the program is embraced by those of different socio-demographic backgrounds. 

How can I purchase Play Nicely?

Individual user: To order and view on your home computer, see our  purchase options page.

Multiple users: See our  purchase options page or visit us.   One example of a multiple user arrangement is in Tennessee.  Play Nicely can be seen at the Junior League of Nashville Family Resource Center on the 2nd Floor of the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital.  No appointment is necessary.  Hours are from 8:30AM-5PM Monday-Friday.  To allow you to view the program more easily, childcare is often available from 10AM-Noon and from 2PM-4PM.