A Place in the World

Adults' Memories of Childhood's Special Places

Abstract

Qualitative research with children and adults in numerous cultures seems to suggest a predisposition to creating special places (e.g., dens, forts, playhouses) during middle childhood. Using extensive interviews and written recollections, I present the attributes of special places, their meaning for their creators, and the role the creation of special places plays in the evolution of the self. A few curricular extensions for elementary school age children are suggested.