Examines the many versions of children's folklore, from games and rhymes, to songs, jokes and stories, which are passed along from child to child.

Why children like traditions: a sense of security -- Echoes of the past: yesterday's lessons -- Learning to be grownup: children's play -- Learning to get along with others: folklore that reinforces social skills -- Rights and rebellion: coping with the adult world -- Coping with the unknown: controlling the world with words -- Tomorrows parents: linking the generations.