The Playdate Parents, Children, and the New Expectations of Play

"Sociologist Mose explores an emerging pattern of child-rearing within the context of declining use of public space, social class and the challenges busy urban families face building a sense of community." (Choice Connect) "While carefully describing the social norms of playdates and birthday parties, and how these norms differ by social class, Mose also writes with a critical eye and welcome sense of humor." (American Journal of Sociology) "The Playdateis a very engaging book . . . this work has deep implications for how we understand the reproduction of class inequality in American life." - Emily W. Kane,author of The Gender Trap "This is an important book. Tamara Mose shines a piercing light on what we are doing forand toour children, and she effectively situates her analysis within the broader social contexts of race, gender, and class." - Howard P. Chudacoff,author of Children at Play: An American History "A sociology professor at Brooklyn College, Ms. Mose examines the ritual of the playdate as if she were descending upon some strange tribe on a remote island. But she seems to belong to part of the world she discusses." (Wall Street Journal)