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)

Describes the findings of a content analysis of 64 picture books on play themes for elementary school children. The books were analyzed to determine who was playing (sex of child or adult; ethnic group membership) and why (play for fun, for social benefits, or for self-enhancement). (SS)

Two crucial development tasks for elementary school children are coming to terms with their physical development and acquiring physical skills. Skill development in organized sports is considered from the point of view of student athletes and coaches. The value of free play versus adult-organized activities is discussed. (BC)

Advocates the use of peer and cross-age teaching in the elementary grades. Play as a method for peer teaching is emphasized. (CM)

A literature review revealed an absence of well-controlled studies concerning the prevention of sports injuries in children. A checklist outlines some causes of the overuse syndrome, including (1) training errors; (2) the nature of playing surfaces; (3) muscle imbalance; (4) anatomic malalignments; (5) construction of shoes; and (6) various…

Reports on an experimental program in which preschool children, kindergarten children, and first- and second-grade students were enrolled for two months for the purpose of observing the extent and nature of the cognitive and social features of play interaction among age mates and nonage mates. (RH)