A tool for early childhood professionals, this book describes developmentally appropriate practices for adults providing services to young children. Part 1 gives the position statement of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) on developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through 8 years of age. Included is a statement of policies essential for achieving developmentally appropriate early childhood programs. Part 2 describes the vital development that takes place during the first 3 years of life and gives examples of appropriate care of infants and toddlers. This part also includes a chart of developmental milestones of children from birth to age 3 and a list of sources for more information about programs for infants and toddlers. Part 3 is designed for practitioners who care for infants or toddlers in group settings, describing appropriate and inappropriate practices. Part 4 provides NAEYC's position statement on developmentally appropriate practice in programs for 4- and 5-year-olds. (RH)