Frequency of tomboyism was assessed in two samples, one of junior-high girls, the other of adult women. It was concluded that tomboyism is statistically quite common and there is little indication that it is abnormal. (Author)

Children can be encouraged to take an interest in art at a very early age, says Harlan Hoffa, professor of art education at the Pennsylvania State University. Discusses some key steps in fostering an interest in art in the child. (Editor/RK)

Disputes previous research findings that the amount of time spent viewing television declines significantly during the adolescent years. (FL)

In this article, the last of the Recollections series, the author remembers her "bookish" childhood. (Editor/RK)

Author suggests reasons for the enormous popularity among children of the Dr. Seuss books. (Editor/RK)

Noting the increase in interactive museums and science centers and children's exuberant reaction to hands-on exhibits, this guide provides tips for parents on how to prepare for a museum visit and how to encourage the learning process during the visit. The first part of the guide discusses the shift in museum policy from "hands off" to…

A 2-year experiment with Hungarian kindergarteners concluded that handicraft activity which evolved out of play experiences had the most positive effects on different kinds of children. (JF)

Discusses G. K. Chesterton's views on children's literature and the importance of children reading for enjoyment. (AEA)

Discusses literary developments in seventeenth century England which caused certain authors, for ideological reasons, to focus a new attention on children. During this period, the emphasis was on presenting children in a more realistic fashion. Literary selections are included. (DB)

Examines the appealing factors of the "Mr. Men" series of story books. (HOD)

Analyzes the book "Five Run Away Together" from the popular but controversial children's series by Enid Blyton; acknowledges some of the negative factors critics have seen in Blyton's books but also points to some values the books have for children. (GT)

Studies spelling bee finalists' early and current reading and spelling experiences. Finds that gifted spellers show an early interest in language arts activities, pass through developmental stages far earlier than normal children, and rely on visual memory strategies, word meanings, and saying/writing words to master orthography. (RS)

The more that students see themselves in everyday situations that involve mathematics, the more likely they are to be successful. Incorporating names, ages, and other personal data into mathematical activities is easy and fun. (MKR)

Asks whether museums successfully create impressions in young children that encourage continuing participation in learning and leisure. Finds that most young children have a limited or misguided conception of museums based on a single direct experience or on an isolated secondary source. Notes other findings of direct interest to art educators.…

As part of a larger study, the childhood psychological traits and conditions of 38 eminent African-American women (who lived between 1863 and 1974) were compared with those of other eminent women. African-American women more often appeared to be advantaged by such psychological traits as independence, perseverance, single-mindedness, and alertness…