Different approaches to implementing 'learning through play' exist in many countries due to different understandings of the concept of play. In Indonesia, teachers implement play in a structured way following certain play developmental stages, where the focus is on children's academic outcomes, rather than the development of concepts as part of…

This study investigated the pedagogical strategies implemented by preschool teachers to scaffold social and emotional learning (SEL) in socioeconomically disadvantaged children (ages 3-4) during the 2020-2021 school year amidst COVID-19 in the United States. The participants consisted of eight teachers (representing four teaching teams of one lead…

The purpose of the study on which this article rests is to supplement ECERS-3 observations of the learning environment (n = 31) for 3-5-year-old children attending preschool activities in Favrskov Municipality, Denmark. The paper gives an in-depth analysis of characteristic features of high-quality preschool activities within the areas of…

Research Findings: Computational thinking (CT), which is defined as the systematic analysis, exploration, and testing of solutions to open-ended and often complex problems, is an important skill to foster in early childhood. However, little is known about teachers' role in fostering CT in early childhood classrooms. To address this gap, we…

Social factors in the classroom (such as interactions with peers and teachers, talk, observation of others, and presence of peers and teachers) influence engagement, but little is known about the sequence or timing of these social factors with engagement. In this observational study of 12 preschoolers, ages 2-5 years, the influence of the timing…

This article describes the independent study project of a student who was a graduate assistant in a child development laboratory preschool when Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck the Gulf Coast area. Through her experiences with "Project Katrina" she deepens her understanding of developmentally appropriate practices as she learns firsthand about…

This brochure provides information for parents on selecting a good early childhood program for their preschool-age child. The brochure describes how 3- and 4-year-olds learn, and gives examples of how a developmentally appropriate program approaches intellectual, social, motor, and language development in 3- and 4-year-olds. The brochure also…

Describes how one teacher helped preschool children draw. Shows how she guided a 4-year-old to use stencils to draw fish independently, helped children use their knowledge of shapes to guide their drawing of animals, and guided children to draw what was important to them. Asserts that helping children to express their ideas independently in…

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…

Examines the role of democracy in education and its importance in early childhood education programs, including benefits to children. Discusses implications for early childhood education programs that include children with disabilities, makes suggestions for promoting democracy in inclusive early childhood environments, and identifies…

Offers tips to help teachers in early childhood settings guide children toward integrating their sensory experiences into basic scientific concepts and skills. Provides examples of observing, identifying, comparing, classifying, communicating, and utilizing within a developmentally appropriate classroom practice. Includes suggestions for setting…

Examined the impact of computers on the social behavior of 14 preschoolers over a 2-month period. Found that there were a total of 91 peer interactions and 33 teacher interactions, including children acknowledging each other, children commenting and being ignored, and children sharing or helping each other. Boys used the computer more than girls.…

As part of Louisiana's efforts to expand and improve the quality of its early childhood programs, a committee of educators from across the state collaborated to develop standards for programs serving 4-year-olds. This guide presents program standards to assist the ongoing development, evaluation, and improvement of early childhood center-based…

Describes two child care administrators' visit to the model preschools in Reggio Emilia, Italy. Discusses the Reggio view of childhood and the structure and environment in a typical Reggio classroom. Notes how the larger cultural elements of Italy--community, history, and pride--are deeply rooted in the Reggio concept. (HTH)

A well-ordered classroom promotes learning, helps build a classroom community, and frees teachers to observe and interact with children in positive ways. This videotape shows how classroom and outdoor environments can convey six positive messages for preschool children: (1) this is a good place to be; (2) you belong here as a valued member of the…