In Pangbisa village in Paro, Bhutan, a unique institution is a testament to His Majesty the King's recognition of the critical role of education in enriching the lives of people and the society, nurturing successive generations of leaders and building a strong, secure, and prosperous nation. The Royal Academy consists of three centers--the School,…

A moon exploration is one example of what Jasmine, and other children in the experimental township of Auroville in India, experience on a regular basis--the Auroville equivalent of a physical education class. It is one of the practices in Awareness Through the Body (ATB), which is described by its creators as "a comprehensive curriculum of…

Children's participation in yoga activities is receiving increasingly widespread attention as an exercise system that promotes not only physical health benefits but also psychological well-being. The authors of this article introduce how yoga practices can be implemented in an early childhood classroom to enhance children's mind and body harmony,…

Love, affection, acceptance, and companionship to children, these are just some of the benefits of a service dog for children. Yet there is much that these remarkable animals can do. From opening doors for children with cerebral palsy to warning a child with diabetes of low blood sugar, the abilities of a properly trained service dog are wide and…

The organizers of the Decade for Childhood have formulated Ten Pillars of a Good Childhood as basic requirements for an optimal childhood. The pillars can be used to analyze the quality of childhood in homes and nations, and to guide policies and practices related to the experience of childhood. In this article, the author shall illustrate, pillar…

Although some music lyrics and television content may indicate an overall easing of censorship in U.S. society, authors, educators, young people, and all other individuals who value free access to information continue to face the threat of censorship from people who try to impose their value systems on others. While censorship can affect any type…

Discusses ideas outlined in a recent report from the Council on Physical Education for Children on the importance of a success-orientated physical education (PE) program for elementary school students. Emphasizes the importance of (1) instructionally appropriate PE; (2) motor skill and movement concept development; (3) social and emotional…

Considers the nature and needs of the emerging adolescent. Identifies important concerns not discussed in this journal issue: child abuse, divorce and visitation rights, nuclear war, work in and out of the home, and stress. Briefly describes the seven articles contained in the issue. (CB)

Presents an account of observations, descriptions, and interpretations of children's representations. Offers examples of ways teachers and parents can help children expand their language, actions, and images to symbolize their experiences. (BB)

Asserts that play is an important medium for young children's learning, one that contributes to the child's cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. Discusses the qualities that distinguish play from other activities, the skills children develop from exposure to a variety of play experiences at home and in the classroom, and…

The influx of children prenatally exposed to drugs represents a heightened challenge to early childhood education programs. Efforts are needed for establishing developmentally appropriate practices, administrative supports, access to special education services, and personnel preparation programs. Guidelines and suggestions relating to these…

Discusses difficulties parents encounter when they play with their disabled child and the inappropriateness of some commercial toys for disabled children. Also describes the development of adapted toys and of toy lending libraries for young disabled children. (BB)