Noting that play is an essential aspect of learning for young children, this book presents a collection of articles on children's play in Australia. Part 1, "Play, Development, and Learning," contains the following chapters: (1) "The Role of Play in Development and Learning" (Ann Glover); (2) "Stop, Look, and Listen: Adopting an Investigative Stance when Children Play" (Elspeth Harley); and (3) "Thinking about Play, Playing about Thinking" (Sue Dockett). Chapters in part 2, "Play and Diversity," are: (4) "Developmentally Appropriate Play and Turtle Hunting" (Lyn Fasoli); (5) "Embarking on a Journey: Aboriginal Children and Play" (Veronica Johns); (6) "Universal Fantasy: The Domination of Western Theories of Play" (Marilyn Fleer); (7) "Even Pink Tents Have Glass Ceilings: Crossing the Gender Boundaries in Pretend Play" (Glenda MacNaughton); (8) "Play and the Gifted Child" (Cathie Harrison and Kim Tegel); and (9) "The Place of Play for Young Children with Disabilities in Mainstream Education" (Barbara Creaser). Part 3, "The Play Environment, Resources, and the Adult's Role," contains the following chapters: (10) "A Walk around Lucy's Garden: A Playground Designed To Foster Children's Play and Enhance Learning" (Pauline Berry); (11) "Play, a Way of Being for Babies and Toddlers" (Anne Stonehouse); (12) "Persona Dolls: The Effects on Attitudes and Play" (Kerry Bosisto and Anne Howard); and (13) "'I Can Be Playful Too': The Adult's Role in Children's Socio-Dramatic Play" (Elizabeth Dau). The book includes an appendix written by Helen Gibson that links the book's chapters with the National Child Competency Standards. Each chapter contains references. (LPP)