This descriptive study examined differences in childhood play across three generations, focusing on kind of play, time of play, and the place play occurred. Participating in the study were 100 persons randomly selected from an initial sample of 165, with 20 subjects from each of 5 age groups: 5 to 12 years; 13 to 20; 21 to 40; 41 to 65; and older than 65 years. The study population lived primarily in urban communities in upper East Tennessee. Data were collected by means of interviews and a 28-item written survey (conducted orally for those who for age, health, or physical handicap reasons could not complete the written survey). Findings revealed that respondents over 65 years had less experience in play with board games, puzzles, and hobbies than other age groups. Childhood play with electronic toys/games was more common with the 5-12 year group than with other groups. Childhood play with parents was most prevalent among the 13-20 year group. Childhood pretend play had the highest score among the participants over 65 years of age. The two oldest age groups were more likely to have limited time for play than younger age groups. The respondents over 65 had the highest response to outdoor play, and the 5-12 year group had the highest response to indoor play. The degree of change appeared to be related to geographical location and family structure during childhood. Also implied was a relationship between play changes, historical events, and shifts in societal pressure. (KB)