Fundamental aspects of the play behavior of kindergarten children are illustrated in five vignettes. Aspects include the function of smiles in play, sex differences in verbal and physical aggression, the simultaneous occurrence of flignt and fantasy in the play of boys, successful nonverbal participation in play, gender stereotypes, the sequencing of participation in different types of play over time, and play as a context providing opportunities for social interaction. Discussion is extended by brief summaries of related research. (RH)