Activities of Very Special Arts, an international organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children, youth, and adults with disabilities, are described. Ways parents can encourage their school to participate in a Very Special Arts program are suggested. (MT)

Children take enormous pride in their drawing abilities. They like bringing to life a specific object whether it is a star or a cat or a tree, and they will likely be frustrated until they can get it just right. Drawing is a way of thinking in motion, the brain guiding the hand, and it demonstrates strongly another type of intelligence. As a…

Cameras and photography offer children a tool for investigating interesting scenes in their environments, turning them into active observers of life. The article recommends types of cameras, describes how to get children started, and presents a variety of activities to help children get the most out of a camera. (SM)

Play teaches children about themselves and the world they live in, engaging them socially, physically, intellectually, and creatively. Parents must allow their children time to play; they must participate in the play to help their children learn and to foster a sense of intimacy. (SM)

This reprint of a 1938 article presents a plea for art education by American artist Grant Wood. Wood says that all children need the opportunity to express themselves in drawing and painting in order to be happy. He explains the importance of teaching expression through art rather than teaching art techniques. (SM)

The father of a boy with Down's syndrome describes his early efforts to cope with his emotions by being strong and hiding his feelings, due to his social conditioning, and subsequent recognition of the importance of expressing his emotions. Problems men face in expressing grief and sharing feelings are discussed in this personal narrative. (PB)