A 2-year experiment with Hungarian kindergarteners concluded that handicraft activity which evolved out of play experiences had the most positive effects on different kinds of children. (JF)

Creating and organizing their own games helps children to understand and appreciate the importance of cooperation, team play, and adherence to game rules. (JD)

The purpose of this book is to help parents and teachers recognize and understand dramatic play in childhood as a process whereby the child acts out human experience in an attempt to order, clarify, and understand it. Written by a person experienced in theatre and drama, the book considers the following aspects of dramatic play: the importance of…

Analyzes seven characteristics of childhood play and describes way in which current computer technology for young children either allows for, or detracts from, creative play experiences. Argues that refinements are necessary before the computer can approach the effectiveness of more traditional materials in stimulating creative play experiences…

These lesson plans are designed to be used with the textbook of the same title. Each lesson plan is broken into four activity parts. The four parts and their major purposes in the scheme of the lesson are as follows: (1) introductory activity; (2) fitness development activity; (3) lesson focus activities; and (4) game activity. The material and…

It is generally recognized that early childhood experiences are extremely important for human development. The development of rational thinking, attention span, and ability to memorize in the first years of life are very much dependent upon motor experiences gained through exploring and comprehending. Early learning experiences should not be…

This paper presents suggestions and guidelines for planning creative outdoor learning environments and experiences for young children. The discussion focuses on the fact that children learn more readily and develop better physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially when their play is allowed to be creative and innovative in nature. The…

Recognizing that children need enrichment at home, this book offers hundreds of unusual ways for kids and parents to spend time together. It also demonstrates the fun people can have while learning, and the learning that goes on while having fun. Using this book as a guide, parents and children can survey new subjects ranging from cultural…

Noting children's need for enrichment at home, this book offers hundreds of unusual ways for children and parents to spend time together. Using this book as a guide, parents and children can survey new subjects ranging from cultural diversity to photography, journal keeping, psychology, food science, gardening, and sports science. The activities…

Considering the creation of proper play areas for children (school sites, municipal and mini parks, private homes and backyards, shopping centers, apartment complexes, recreational areas, roadside parks, nursery schools, churches, summer camps, and drive-in theaters) as one of today's major challenges, the author recommends that professional…

New developments in the field of elementary school physical education are included in this up-dated text book. The following major topics are covered: (1) organizing, developing, and implementing a physical education program and curriculum; (2) the learning process and teaching techniques; (3) implementing a physical fitness program with attention…

The purpose of this guide to the textbook of the same title is to provide ways and means for improving the teacher education program in which it is used. Each chapter is analyzed from the following: (1) basic purpose; (2) concepts; (3) competencies; (4) suggested approach; (5) suggested learning experiences; and (6) selected references. (JD)

The young child learns patriotism through music, art, games, and dramatic activities. Concepts in history (names, dates, events) geography, and civics are introduced through specific activities. The media are used as a source of information. Art activities, listening to original stories, musical activities, pantomime, and role playing provide…

Argues that children need play time to explore the world because it is valuable, irreplaceable, spontaneous, and provides situations where children can learn with all their senses. Examines play in terms of its role in exploration, imagination, creative activity, work, learning, knowledge expansion, art, and the culture of children. (Author/SD)