This paper explores the case method as a model for teaching education students about play. The case method may contribute to an examination of the barriers to children's play expression within school and create more effective classroom practice. Within the model, students can consider cases which have been carefully constructed from actual practice and designed to illuminate the complexity of human situations. Through discussion, analysis, and collaborative problem solving, the case method provides an interactive forum in which students can construct knowledge about the nature, value, and purpose of play in early education. Play education should be guided by a framework building upon and integrating: (1) theoretical knowledge regarding play; (2) practical skills applied in the classroom setting; and (3) dispositions toward play and children's learning. The case method facilitates self-governed learning; produces cognitive dissonance; requires students to apply theories, use analytical skills, and create innovative approaches to resolving problems; and fosters independent thinking and reflection. It is important to develop with care the written narrative and case questions, to conduct the case discussion, and teach case writing to students. A play case bank may be built with teacher- and student-written cases, videos, films, and books. (KDFB)