Not Child's Play

By Lisa McLaughlin, Isabel C. Gonzalez

ADULTS LOOKING TO RELIVE THE HAPPY times and innocence of childhood are revisiting their school days (and nights). Men and women of every age are turning to all sorts of childish pursuits for hobbies, work- outs and vacation activities. Can milk-and-cookie breaks and nap time be far behind?

S-P-E-L-L-I-N-G BEES Hipsters are revisiting this anxiety-filled childhood academic ritual with lexical throwdowns in bars and cafes from New York City to Las Vegas.

MATH CAN BE FUN Comedy writers and actors gather in Los Angeles to ponder equations at Math Club, where the motto is "Be there and be square."

HOOP IT UP Those looking to add a little play to the work of a fitness regime can sign up at a gym for hula-hooping classes with specially weighted hoops.

PILLOW TALK Pajama-party packages are offered at hotels and spas, like Maryland's Harbour Inn. What to wear? The Big Feet Pajama Co. makes one-piece, footed PJs in adult sizes.