Children's play experiences have a profound impact on all areas of their growth, learning, and development. Play Today: A Guide for Families describes ideas and examples of quality play experiences that can be offered to preschool and school-age children by their families and caregivers. This guide puts a focus on play-based learning for children…

The paper examines the application of ecobehavioral analysis to the study of transitions between special preschool and regular kindergarten settings. Two measures for evaluating ecobehavioral interactions are described: Ecobehavioral System for the Complex Assessment of Preschool Environments (ESCAPE) and Assessment Code/Checklist for Evaluating…

Developed by experienced professionals, this brochure is designed to let parents know what the Whole Language Approach is, how it is being used in the classroom, and how parents can apply Whole Language in the home. (RS)

States that the influence of the home environment on children's learning has long been recognized as significant. Presents some exemplary programs and guiding principles that teachers can share with parents to promote their children's literacy. Lists 10 simple reading-writing activities that could be shared with parents at an open house or…

Because sensorimotor and environmental factors have a profound effect on children's learning, every teacher should know how to weave strategies from occupational therapy (OT) into their everyday instruction. This is the guidebook K-3 teachers need to "think like an OT"--and form effective partnerships with OTs in their schools--so all students can…

Proposes ten interactive wall displays, noting appropriate age and content use for each. Gives ten guidelines for planning an interactive bulletin board. Advises on what makes an effective bulletin board, and when bulletin boards are not useful. Identifies useful materials for display boards and handy hangers. (DLH)

This review of research on the development of self-concept in young children defines and differentiates the various dimensions of self-concept; notes problems associated with measuring self-concept; comments on the relationship between cognitive development and self-concept, and discusses external factors related to self-concept development. (BB)

This book for primary grade teachers provides over 500 ideas and suggestions for designing the environment and developing learning activities in a child-centered classroom. Part 1 of the book focuses on the larger school environment, with suggestions for making the whole school inviting for parents and children. Part 2 provides ideas for making…

The 12 articles in this publication contain information designed to help parents of preschool and elementary school children understand the complex psychological and sociological process of language development and its relationship to learning to read. The articles also provide specific suggestions for parents who wish to participate in their…

Advocates the development of oral language along with emergent literacy. Notes that classroom environment is essential to oral language development, and suggests ways to support children's language development, such as providing firsthand experiences with their environment, and focusing on materials and events relevant to their lives. (MM)

Presents tips to help teachers best use their preparation time before school opens. Suggestions include making multiple student lists; designing classroom desk arrangements; reviewing cumulative records; adding desktop names and numbers; checking texts; posting correctable schedules; decorating only one bulletin board; creating box-trays for…

The cornerstone of the High/Scope approach to early elementary education is the belief that active learning is fundamental to the full development of human potential and that active learning occurs most effectively in settings that provide developmentally appropriate learning opportunities. This guide and accompanying videotape are intended to…

Discusses how daily routines in early childhood and primary grade settings can assist young children's developing understanding of time. Notes adaptable activities, including tracking weather, keeping records, talking about activities, creating time lines, celebrating personal milestones, and recording events and changes. Lists ways to integrate…

Offers suggestions for promoting dramatic play as a medium for literacy development by concentrating on three factors: (1) the settings in which play occurs; (2) the amount of time allocated for play activities; and (3) the type of teacher involvement in play episodes. (MG)

Focusing on children's developmental use of written language in kindergarten and first grade, this report looks at connections between the social and academic dimensions of classroom life. The first section examines literacy as an aspect of growing up and becoming a member of society. By highlighting the social and academic divisiveness schooling…