This book is designed for physical education teachers at the elementary level. It includes a discussion of physical education for grades seven and eight, which provides specific background knowledge for teachers who did not receive adequate training for this age group. Information concerning the physical, mental, social, and creative development of children has been correlated with the planning and teaching of the elementary physical education program. Special emphasis is given to the nature of motor learning, including perceptual motor learning, the analysis of motor movement, and the development of attitudes and interests. Theories of learning and behavior have been interpreted in terms of practical applications in the teaching of physical education. Suggestions are made for activities suited to needs, abilities, and interests of students at each level from nursery school through eighth grade. Discussions of planning and organizing the program, motivating the learners, and evaluating the students and the program are included. Chapter headings include: foundations of physical education; how and why children learn; techniques for effective planning and organization; implementing equipment; rhythms, dance, and singing games; lead-up and team games; tumbling; classroom games; aquatics; nursery school physical education; games for the playground and self-directed play; and extraclass programs. The appendixes cover: motor skill test sources for intermediate and junior high school grades; physical fitness tests for the educable mentally retarded; improvised equipment; and an index of dances, games, and stunts. (MM)