I've been a student of many books on play for kids in toddlerhood. I recently ordered the book _Killing Monsters: Why Children Need Fantasy, Super Heroes, and Make-Believe Violence_ by Gerard Jones. (Sorry, I don't know how to add a hyperlink here)

I have not read this book, but would like to engage some Wise Men as I prepare to get into it. I'll be reading it weighing the author's perspective with one of my heroes, Fred "Mister" Rogers.

I could use some reflection from other dads about components of violence in play.

It bothers me to have good v. evil be a central theme in our 6-year-old's play for too long because I don't want our son to be practicing the posture of fierce feelings and play-acting them out. On the other hand, it's a helpful way to come to grips with certain slices of life and teach: anger, meanness, helping, rescuing, virtue and morality, friendship and family, etc. So if the "cowboys and indians" of our era is power rangers or star wars, and--in a few years-- online gaming-- how do you think this kind of play is helpful or harmful? How does the way a Dad cares for his child's spirit change with developmental stages?

Thanks for thoughts.

I'll check in as I digest the book and offer some nutshells for us to muse over.