The conference papers included in this monograph discuss topics related to early childhood education. Two keynote addresses by Brian Sutton-Smith are presented along with five sectional presentations by other speakers. The first keynote address, concerning the nature of children's stories: (1) argues that adults use stories to indoctrinate children, and not to encourage children to express themselves; (2) provides examples of stories invented by children; (3) points out characteristics of children's stories; and (4) differentiates four levels of children's story construction. The second keynote address examines some currently available, widely contrasting views of play and games. Play is discussed in terms of its idealization as freedom, as creativity and imagination, as mastery, and as collaboration. Games are discussed in terms of the idealization and malediction of games, games as irrational, as deceptive, and as physical contest. Relevant applications of each of the above discussions to the play of early childhood are considered. Sectional presentations concern stages of artistic development during early childhood (James H. Brutger), holistic wellness for teachers (Frank Guldbrandsen), health education for preschoolers (Georgia L. Keeney), ways adults can help abused children (Kay Stevens), and ways of strengthening stepfamilies (Janine A. Watts). (RH)