Manners on the Playground

Children's Literature

Playground behavior is often something teachers and aides find themselves dealing with on a daily basis. In an effort to show proper playground manners, DeGezelle presents a straightforward and simple list of rules of behavior. Very short chapters explain how to have fun, be kind, respectful, patient and fair on the playground. Very nice but rather staged-looking photographs illustrate the desired behaviors. While few children would choose this book solely for entertainment, it would make a nice read-along for parents and children, or teachers and students. The book does include a few fun facts—the first U.S. playground opened in Boston in 1885. The last few pages contain an "Amazing but True!" fact and an alternate version of the classic game of tag. Also included are a table of contents, glossary and lists of suggested books and websites. This book is part of a series of "First Facts" books on manners that includes other titles such as Manners in the Classroom and Manners at a Friend's Home. This is a serviceable, if not exciting, venture in to the land of teaching children good manners. 2005, Capstone Press, Ages 5 to 10.
—Sharon Oliver