During the summer of 2016, the first author, along with an undergraduate student, observed an early childhood education program for 3- to 6-year-old children at Bright School, Muhanga, Rwanda. For two weeks, they documented the curriculum development, curricular and cultural adaptations of developmentally appropriate practices, social and…

This article addresses a question that is of key importance in preparing early childhood personnel, especially those in inclusive environments: "How do we teach in ways that we want our students to teach?" There is an emphasis on developing a "community of practice" where professionals can share their work-related concerns and…

All children have the right to creative expression through the arts. The creation of art cultivates critical thinking, reflection, and problem-solving skills. It also encourages systems thinking; the color choices, individual brushstrokes, and materials all contribute to a greater whole. Infusing art-making and arts education throughout the…

This article synthesizes key principles that teachers should utilize to support English language learners in mainstream early childhood classrooms. Principles include treating children fairly, which entails treating children differently; providing an appropriate language environment; providing adequate English instruction to allow basic…

The SMART planning system is examined as a tool for teachers working toward the successful inclusion of children with disabilities. Four focus areas are discussed connected with the SMART acronym: Select curriculum and approaches; Match instruction to child; Adapt when necessary; Relevant skills targeted; Test to inform instruction. Suggestions on…

Examines three early childhood gifted programs at the University of Illinois: (1) University Primary School, which uses an interest-based curriculum; (2) Retrieval and Acceleration of Promising Handicapped Talented, with a teacher-determined curriculum; and (3) Bringing Out Head Start Talents, serving children from lower class families in a…