Examines social fantasy play in relation to several indices of social competence in a sample of 91 preschoolers (ages 35 to 69 months). Results indicate the amount and complexity of fantasy play significantly predicted four competency measures: teacher ratings of peer social skill, popularity, affective role taking, and a behavioral summary score…

The relationship of maternal behavioral style to cognitive development states of 60, 1-, 2-, and 3-year-old organically impaired, mentally retarded children was investigated. Factor analysis of maternal behavioral items revealed three major parameters of behavior. Child-Oriented/Maternal Pleasure was related positively, whereas Quantity of…

Topics discussed in this issue include the cognitive education of the preschooler, general problems in aesthetic education and child development, educating children through play, family influence on the preschooler's personality, and the preparation of children for school. (RM)

Investigates six demographic variables of 244 inservice preschool teachers and staff members to determine the variables predictive of the type of children's play materials adults preferred. (Author/RH)

Discusses the possible disruptive influence of computers on young children's play, the age at which children can benefit from using a computer language like LOGO, promoting cognitive development through experiences with computers, and whether playing with computers is actually play. (RH)

Discusses examples of peer social interaction and language play among fourth through sixth graders. Suggests that these sub-rosa skills be taken into consideration during classroom assessment of language competence and development. (HTH)

Discusses dramatic techniques and their limitations in French language learning. (Text is in French.) (AM)

Shows how program activities can be a major therapeutic tool as an aid in diagnosis, a specific treatment intervention, positive reinforcement after discussion, an aid to behavior management. Discusses general factors to be considered in choosing group activities. (JH)

Concludes that the role of the teacher as researcher in children's development of thinking and socialization through play is multi-dimensional. The initial function is the internal analysis of children's thinking and interaction within a variety of settings. (Author)

Dramatic play and role playing are two techniques that can be used to help children understand their feelings about death. (JH)

Paul Friedberg designs playgrounds that provide opportunities for physical play, which develops motor skills; social play, the interaction between children; and cognitive play, the problem-solving process. (Author/MLF)

By enhancing the block play in classrooms, teachers can help children acquire the emerging skills they need--with numbers, vocabulary, and reading--for kindergarten readiness. Newburger and Vaughan provide a theoretical foundation describing why and how to use blocks, and give guidance on selecting blocks and block safety. With chapters on the…

The toys children use during play are extremely important in their development. Anthropologists have found evidence of toys dating back as far as the first record of human life and among all cultures. Toys can be an entertaining and educational way for children to learn and respond to social situations, and they give children the opportunity to…

This study investigated whether there is a difference in the number of toys that male and female parents assign as appropriate for a particular gender. It was expected that fathers would be more restrictive in their categorization of toys to one gender or the other. A measure of gender typing of toys or play behaviors was sent to both parents of…

This guide explains the concept of "special play" and provides instructions for parents on how to use this daily 15-minute play period to encourage positive behaviors in their young children. The purpose of special play is to create situations in which children become aware of feelings that they have not previously recognized, build children's…