ABSTRACT
Young children are naturally curious about their world, a disposition that begins at a very early age. As noted by Eleanor Roosevelt, curiosity is an attribute that she considers to be a gift and something that every child deserves. Natural curiosity, and interest in the things of the world, continues as a young child becomes mobile and ventures into new environments. Different children are drawn to different objects, with choices reflecting a personality or preferences that build incrementally. Collections can be inspired by a single object that a child sees in his environment; certainly shells on the beach or rocks at the park reflect this idea. Children's environments, at home and at school, are places filled with objects and often include those specifically designed for play, from building blocks of different types to puppets, dolls, trucks, books, and puzzles. Collecting is a natural inclination for young children and an activity that continues throughout life.
