Combining a scientific and a humanistic approach in a series of essays that draw on both clinical and literary data, this book examines how imaginative play begins and how it develops. From the infant's first smiles and peekaboo games to the toddler's exploration of objects and participation in symbolic and social pretend play, the book traces the development of the imagination in the young child's invocation of imaginary friends and fabrication of imaginary worlds; the adolescent's daring, rule-governed games; and the adult's private imagery and inner thought. The examples and detailed review of the research show that children's make-believe continues, if less overtly, into adulthood in secret societies, Mardi Gras costumes, and Renaissance fairs, for example, and that a well-exercised imagination enriches adult life. Selected examples from the childhoods of famous, or nearly famous, and of less well-known people who simply wished to record their life experience, are used in the examination of the origins, the determinants, and the manifestations of the human imagination in childhood and early adolescence. Additional issues discussed are the relationship of television and imagination, the healing function of play, and the developmental role of playfulness and creativity throughout the lifespan. (AA)