Discusses the importance of bedtime rituals for children and suggests that observing these rituals can help children feel secure and in control. Illustrates the theme of bedtime in several books for children. (AEF)

Focuses on the theme of safe and comforting places for children, and how libraries can help provide safe havens for children. Presents a survey of safe places in selected works of children's literature. Includes a sampler of creative activities focusing on the theme, and a list of resources (books and videotapes). (AEF)

Describes how riddles can help children develop intellectually and interact socially. Discusses riddles for children in various works: geography, poetry, mathematics, and folklore. Presents a sampler of creative activities for children, including play-acting, interviewing parents, designing exhibits, imitating news reporters, and setting up a…

Describes examples in children's literature dealing with the theme of perfection and discusses ways to engage middle school children in a discussion of this. Suggests four creative activities that can help children to realize they cannot always be perfect. Lists books and films on this topic. (AEF)

Presents examples from children's literature that illustrate types of special "thinking/dream spots." Suggests the following activities: creating a dream place in the library media center, describing or drawing a dream spot, designing a meditation room, making a sculpture garden, and writing monologs. (AEF)

Discusses yearnings in film and children's literature. Lists several questions about film and book characters' yearnings that can guide discussion and class activities. Presents sample creative activities with yearning as a theme. Lists book and videotape resources. (AEF)