Oral language development, the single most important factor in determining readiness for reading, may be enhanced through creative drama, especially role playing. Role playing is spontaneous play which traditionally has served many purposes, including promoting socialization. It can also be a unique method of recreating historical episodes in…

This study was designed to: (1) obtain ecological data on the social behaviors of children in the preschool classroom especially in freeplay settings, and (2) identify characteristics of the physical environment and program variables which support, attenuate, or preclude social behaviors and social development. Observations were made of 16 3-, 4-,…

The object of this study was to determine the extent to which children displayed predictable, recurring patterns of behavior when engaged in self-selected activities. Subjects were four girls and three boys, 4 years of age, all from middle class urban families. The classroom's free play space was divided into four equal areas. Toys were divided…

This paper focuses on the importance of play for a child's physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development. Three major purposes of the report are: (1) to persuade those concerned with the education of young children that play is an essential activity for children's well-being and should be facilitated at home and in the classroom, (2) to…

The relationships among improvisational movement, creative drama, "movement thinking," and motivation for learning in children are explored in this book. Chapters deal with (1) the meaning of movement and drama, (2) a clarification of the teacher's role and the capabilities of children, (3) sensory awareness activities, (4) body awareness--e.g.,…

This document is a compilation of weekly reports written by the unit-based teachers in the Ypsilanti Preschool Demonstration Project. The purpose of the unit-based program is to supply preschoolers with the necessary educational and social skills to adapt readily to a kindergarten curriculum. The success of the program depends almost entirely upon…

This curriculum guide for the teaching of composition at the fifth grade level includes lessons in six categories: Observing, Recalling Experiences, Character Identity, Feelings, Time/Space Relationships, and Using Imagination. Additional lessons are included for fifth grade students. The lessons include a statement of purpose, a description of…

This curriculum guide provides an introductory course in the theatre for first-year high school students. The course uses an interdisciplinary approach and includes a discussion of types and styles of drama, a brief history of drama, fundamentals of acting, and techniques of play production focusing on music, costume design, make-up, scenery,…

Some procedures, costs, and results of the Pilot Special Events Child Development Programs in Minneapolis and St. Paul in 1971 and 1972 are reviewed. The program was designed to provide an innovative and stimulating experience for the children of parents attending a political conference. A chapter describing equipment needed includes toys for…

The effects of spatial density on five styles of children's behavior (aggression, passivity, self-involved play, avoidance, and instability of activity) were studied. Subjects were 72 five-year-olds, half male, half female. Twelve groups of six children participated in 54-minute sessions of free play in an adult-free situation. A multivariate…

Creative drama provides the opportunity for children to experience fantasy and for teachers and children to interact through role playing. (JH)

A treatment and enrichment program for emotionally disturbed children based on the concept of bonding is described. The program, Developmental Play, is discussed as a model for training parents and child care workers. (SE)