This handbook was developed to assist educators and parents in fostering children's self-concept through developmentally appropriate kindergarten experiences. Guidelines for parental involvement, classroom volunteers, and families under stress are included. The handbook describes basic characteristics of children from ages 3-8 in terms of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. It also discusses visual, audio, kinesthetic, and tactile learning styles, stressing the importance of considering learning styles when planning learning environments. A list of recommended classroom arrangements, and materials and equipment for the classroom is included for the following curriculum areas: creative arts, language arts, science, music, woodworking, manipulative mathematics and perception, dramatic play, gross motor activities, audiovisual, blocks and construction, and cognitive manipulatives. Also included are sample daily kindergarten schedules. Other information in the handbook consists of: (1) a plan for one day of a learning unit using the theme "The Gingerbread Boy"; (2) suggested methods and issues related to insuring learning success; (3) indirect and direct approaches to discipline; (4) program suggestions for mainstreaming for disabilities; and (5) substance abuse programs. Specific learning experiences related to creative, social, physical, and intellectual development are described. In each category of learning experiences, information is provided on objectives, expected student performance, and learning activities. Criteria for book selection and a list of suggested books for the kindergarten level are included. A list of teacher resources and references is provided. (LP)