1942: In small towns, boys and girls amuse themselves by playing with friends and family members of about the same age. They often play outdoor games such as softball, tag, and hideand- seek. Other common pastimes include performing skits; dressing up in silly outfits or grownups' clothing; exploring nearby trails, woods, or creeks; and setting up lemonade or snow-cone stands to make a little money.

Today: In small towns and big cities alike, children and adolescents entertain themselves with television, videos, computers, video games, music, and reading.

1942: Many middle-class white families employ African Americans as domestic help. Women are often housekeepers who also help with child rearing and thus become a part of the family dynamics. For many African-American women (like Berenice), this is their best opportunity for work. Men are employed less frequently but are sometimes paid to perform tasks such as household repairs...