Author(s): Martha B. Bronson

Learning Environments

This book serves as a guide to selecting play materials for individuals providing education and care for young children. The introductory chapter of the book discusses child play and the importance of selection of play materials based on needs of children and the purposes they serve. The next six chapters provide information on play materials, each for a different age range in early childhood. These chapters are: (2) young infants (birth through 6 months); (3) older infants (7 through 12 months); (4) young toddlers (1 year old); (5) older toddlers (2 years old); (6) preschool and kindergarten children (3 through 5 years); and (7) primary-school children (6 through 8 years). Each chapter contains the following information to assist in the selection of play material: abilities and play interests; initial appropriateness considerations; suggestions for appropriate materials; and priorities and special considerations. The four headings under which play materials for each age range are grouped are: social and fantasy play materials; exploration and mastery play materials; music, art, and movement materials; and gross motor play materials. The book also provides toy safety regulations made mandatory by the government and those adopted by the toy industry, as well as a table summarizing play materials by type and age groups. Includes over 100 references. (BAC)