This article is a personal memoir of how Vivian Gussin Paley deepened a veteran teacher's understanding of how young children learn through play. With careful observation of children at fantasy play, intentional listening, and dictation, Paley enhanced and sharpened appreciation of how children relate to their surroundings and build skills for…

Since 1992 C. J. Rogers has lived with wolves and studied their societies at Raised by Wolves, a licensed, nonprofit research sanctuary situated in a high valley of New Mexico's Zuni Mountains, not far from the Four Corners. Rogers, who has taught at Northeastern Illinois University and Western New Mexico University, holds doctorates in both…

Reviews several explanations for "playing the dozens," a ritualized verbal contest carried out principally among Black males. Holds that the ritual is a survival technique that teaches young Black men to face up to an antagonistic society and to deal with conflicts. Provides examples of ritual insult from other cultures. (Author/GC)

States the position of the National Association for the Education of Young Children on violence in children's programing. Presents research upon which the statement is based, as well as recommendations for policymakers, teachers, and parents. (PCB)

Discusses the effect of children's outdoor play on their learning, the promotion of children's development by their playing of games which they have invented, and suggestions for adults to encourage children to invent outdoor games. (BC)

Discusses how young children learn the art of communication and negotiation through conversations with their peers. Notes how such verbal explorations help children comfort one another, become assimilated into other children's games, and resolve conflicts. (HTH)

Not all fighting or aggression in young children is bad, and some kinds of teacher intervention may be beneficial. Play-fighting refers primarily to rough and tumble play and chasing, and several studies have shown that play and serious fighting can be clearly distinguished in young children. Numerous authors have pointed out the value and…

This paper discusses linkages between play, healthy social and emotional development, and behavior management in young children. Play is defined as pleasurable, self-motivated, non-goal-directed, and spontaneous behavior, free from adult-imposed rules. Many children have limited time available for play because they are directed by adults in day…