The purpose of this case study was to examine the play based teaching and learning methods at one particular elementary school in southeastern Massachusetts with the aim of identifying methods and practices that are seen as essential in developing the academic and social skills in kindergarten students. This school of study has been utilizing multiple approaches driven by budget, state mandates, and administrative decision making. The intrinsic case study was designed to analyze perceptions of kindergarten teachers with respect to their thoughts and beliefs on the most developmentally appropriate and effective way to teach academic and social skills to kindergarten students. Data were obtained through interviews, classroom observations, and a review of professional development offerings in the school district. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]