Some points that may serve as a foundation of experience and reference in the stimulation of mentally retarded children during the years of one through five are presented. Points of development are given for the following breakdowns of time: three months, six months, nine months, 12 months, 18 months, two years, three years, four years, and five…

The major objective of this series of studies was to clarify the concept of mastery motivation and to develop measures of this concept applicable to 1-year-old children. Three studies were made with 44 infants, aged 12 to 13 months. The first study, "Aspects of Mastery Motivation and Cognitive Functioning," utilized structured situations…

This unit of the Flexible Learning System (FLS) is concerned with the importance of play to early child development and with classroom conditions that promote productive play activity. Emphasis is put on developing skills in observing and analyzing play and understanding specific types of adult intervention in the play process. Activities and an…

This guide book is addressed to those responsible for early childhood physical education. It is divided into nine segments, each covering in detail different facets of the subject: (1) the young child's development and learning processes in their relation to physical education; (2) the child's physical education program, its purpose and…

This paper discusses the rationale and implementation procedures for a cognitively oriented intervention program for parents of preschoolers aged 2-3 based in a pediatric clinic playroom. The manual outlines guidelines for establishing such a service starting with recruitment of clients, maintaining the program for parents, organizing the play…

In response to the recent emphasis on communicative skills and simulation in the language class, a new approach brings the techniques of dramatic improvisation into the classroom. (MSE)

Offers annotated citations for several recent ERIC documents concerning how children think and learn and how those involved with them can assist in the development of these processes. (RH)

Designed as a resource and as a guide for professionals who work with children and their families, this book explores the cathartic effect of humor on children, and looks at humor as an infusion of energy that promotes healthy growth, development, and adjustment in children of all ages. The chapters are as follows: (1) "Introduction: A Global…

The move to a more integrated setting for preschool classrooms has become a primary choice in the education of young children. The current research suggests that inclusion at the preschool level has a social impact on the behaviors of young children. Studies examining child play preference and attitudes towards children with disabilities have…

Distributed by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Education, and Health and Human Services, this Spanish-language pamphlet provides parents with information and advice about their infants in the fifth month of life. Following a brief description of developmental characteristics at this age, the pamphlet offers information on topics including…

This study compared the participation in various types of activities during the elementary school years of academically successful and unsuccessful youth. The academically successful group consisted of 63 college students from lower level general communication classes. The two unsuccessful comparison groups consisted of 53 youth, ages 13 to 16…

Recognizing that the development of an emotional bond between children and their parents stems from the ability to express love and the willingness to share time together, this book is designed to assist parents spend quantity time with their children and establish opportunities for appreciating each other's company. The book is based on START…

Based on the view that blocks are a tool that preschool teachers can use to teach all the skills and concepts necessary for children to be successful learners, this guide presents over 50 activities to enhance the preschool and kindergarten classroom's block corner. Chapter 1 of the guide illustrates the skills learned through block play in the…

Recognizing that creativity facilitates children's learning and development, the Head Start Program Performance Standards require Head Start programs to include opportunities for creative self-expression. This guide with accompanying videotape, both in English- and Spanish- language versions, encourages and assists adults to support children's…

Based on the view that the early childhood care and education environment can have a tremendous influence on infant and toddler development, this book will assist early childhood teachers/caregivers in meeting the challenge of creating an effective learning environment for infants and toddlers. The book includes ideas for planning, using, and…