The PEP Games Handbook is a key reference. It is compact enough to be tucked into a pocket for handy on-the-spot selection and successful facilitation of group games on school playgrounds (and other play time). All the pages are waterproof for durable outdoor use.

The handbook includes -

1) easy step-by-step instructions and diagrams for over 45 active games and 12 jump rope rhyme games. Each description also notes number of players, suggested age of players, equipment and set up needed, and other descriptors that help in initiating game play. These fun games have been field-tested by elementary students on many playgrounds over the course of 12 years, and many have become the favorite of students. see research The games are inclusive and cooperative (focused on common efforts to meet challenges, and players are not eliminated or set against each other in order to determine ultimate winners and losers).

2) self-organizing tools, guidelines and strategies for successful game play:

- Cross-indexed lists allow game leaders and game players to select games that match the age and number of interested players, weather conditions, set-up configurations and available games equipment. . . .
- The Ground Rules of Fair Play articulate a common game etiquette that builds a culture of trust among players and decreases petty game disputes. Game facilitators can articulate these basic guidelines to keep play on track (those who do not abide by the ground rules and game rules are asked to sit out for a short time before joining in the group fun again).
- Fair and practical skill sets introduce (a) ways to form teams; (b) ways to select who is "IT"; and (c) ways to resolve game disputes peacefully. These pro-active skill sets provide for more fun play time and fewer frustrating game interruptions.

3) Practical tips for the safe and successful facilitation of cooperative game play.

Additional notes

• The handbook ring-bound format allows owners to add information to customize it for their own use (i.e. add your school's playground rules or more games).
• This handbook is designed to help both adults and students learn the games, but also for students to learn game-playing constructs and pro-social skills that will allow them to play games without adult direction.
• The games are enjoyed by people of all ages. They are great for middle school and highs school gym classes, warm-ups for team practices, and family re-unions.