The investigation reported in this bulletin was undertaken for the purpose of making available a volume of evidence on questions concerning the early elimination of children during out-of-school hours. The inquiry was confined to the children of sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Information concerning the following points has been presented: (1) The proportion of school children who work during out-of-school hours; (2) The amount and money value of the work; (3) The nature of the work performed; (4) How school children spend their leisure hours; (5) Why children leave school at an early age; and (6) To what extent can gardening replace less desirable forms of employment. The investigation covers the activities of 14,391 children from rural communities and distributed over 11 states. (Contains 8 footnotes and 10 tables.) [Best copy available has been provided.]