After reading a short story, a sixth grade class became involved in an avid discussion, a debate, and dramatic play - all based on the short story. A vast amount of learning had taken place through the study of a single short story. (Author/DR)

Behavioral differences were found for both mongols and normal children (mental age below 2 years) between those who lived at home with their parents and those in institutions. (Author/WY)

This study suggests that elementary school counselors can bring about positive changes in a child and his classroom behavior by providing a positive relationship and an environment where the child can explore his ideas and feelings through his most natural medium of expression, that of play. (Author)

A report from the Educational Resources Information Center at the National Council of Teachers of English; includes ERIC abstracts of documents pertinent to this topic. (RD)

Presents some nonverbal activities which counselors can use to encourage participation by all family members, including young children. Timing and ways of using activities to promote communication and structured change in therapy are also discussed. (Author/JAC)

To investigate the development of preschoolers' social-cognitive play behaviors, ten preschoolers (two, three and four years old) were observed in their classrooms on 15 occasions by a time-sampling schedule. Social-cognitive behavior coding (Parten and Smilansky) indicates that children's play became more social as they grew older. (Author/PN)

This article describes the playground of the future. Its design would promote both defined and creative play opportunities for all children including the handicapped. Also discussed is the equipment that would be useful in developing all children's perceptual motor abilities in 11 different areas. (JM)

Shows how children's use of explicit oral language is related to success in learning to read and writing. Outlines a technique to teach the use of explicit language through dramatic play. (HTH)

A recommended class activity is a simple gift exchange. Vocabulary, including a wide range of options, holiday terms, and idioms, is introduced at the beginning of class. Partners are assigned, exchange takes place, and thank-you notes may be written. Student enthusiasm and attention are often by-products. (MSE)

A study was done to clarify the effects of guided sociodramatic or group pretend play on the mathematical behaviors and adult-observed playfulness traits of five year olds. The effects of sex differences on mathematical behaviors and playfulness were also examined. (JN)

A study was done to examine whether certain observed play behaviors of young children might show relationships to scores of assessments of cognitive constructs. The investigation sought to determine the extent to which responses related to such behaviors as pretend play, sense of humor, acts of aggression, and talkativeness. (JN)

The Erica Method, a form of play-diagnosis and play-therapy used widely in Sweden, utilizes a standardized material that consists of sandboxes and miniature toys. The method is a very useful tool for better understanding of both developmental, neurological and psychopathological problems of childhood. (Author)