A short-term longitudinal study of the peer-related social interactions of 111 developmentally delayed toddlers and preschool children was carried out. Results suggested the existence of unusually marked deficits in peer interactions. Possible contributing factors were discussed. (Author/RH)

Discusses some basic theoretical perspectives in second-language learning and draws tentative links with underlying themes and processes in simulation gaming. It is argued that the application of simulation gaming to second-language learning encourages learners to play with language symbols and enjoy themselves while learning. (Author/MBR)

Two experiments were performed with five severely developmentally disabled individuals (13-26 years old) to test the relationship between toys as conditioned reinforcers and stereotypy. Findings suggested that conditioning reinforcers for play, such as toys, may result in a durable and possibly more cost effective procedure of dealing with…

This article addresses the less utilized, nontraditional techniques of experiential and exploratory theater as vehicles for promoting both cognitive and affective learning. It discusses puppets as provocateurs, evoking response through mime, improvisation, and exploratory theater and problem solving. (CT)

The review synthesizes viewpoints on functions of play and provides an overview of information on effects of visual impairments on play patterns. The importance of play in learning is stressed. Specific needs for research on the play behavior of young children with low vision are identified. (Author/CL)

Child care workers in an institution for severely/profoundly retarded children were trained to use prompts and increased toy availability. On the average purposeful activity level of the children increased from 10 percent to a mean of 70 percent during treatment while stereotyped or harmful behaviors decreased from an average of 20 percent to 70…

This article clarifies the concept of the nature of play for professional purposes. Evolutionary and biosocial analysis of play behavior is advanced and associated with current cultural views of play. Suggestions on how a culture can positively satisfy human play needs are offered. (Author/DF)

Describes children's play materials in one rural village in Senegal and illustrates the children's free play. (CI)

Addresses the questions of why and how school learning activities might be made more playlike. Suggests that the concept of flow and of mastery learning are linked. While this relationship must be tested empirically, it offers the possibility of improving teaching techniques. (CB)

Through play, children draw ideas from their own experiences and create exciting works of art. Materials and methods that can be used in the classroom to help children play are described. (CS)

Suggests ways in which improvisational drama can be used to foster student involvement, self-awareness, and communication. (KS)

In this book, parents will find ways to help teachers nurture important emerging math skills, from sorting and division of materials to early counting. Basic ideas and tools, including classroom-tested activities, will help support their child's math learning, both at home and in child care. Following an introduction, the book contains three…

This study involved observation of 4- and 5-year-olds in a day care setting, focusing on how they developed and maintained friendships with other children in day care. Children were observed twice a day for 3 weeks as they engaged in outdoor play, dramatic play, and manipulative play. Observations included which children played with each other and…