Presents research findings and suggestions on how children learn to categorize shapes. Discusses specific ways to present developmentally appropriate activities designed to enhance children's understanding of basic shapes. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

Considers theory, standards, guidelines, and rationale for technology in the preschool environment. Examines practices of 12 diverse preschool sites and derives 4 models that enable early learners to engage and experience technology within a developmentally appropriate learning environment. Focuses on technology-infused preschool models for…

Discusses the value of middle school reform involving interdisciplinary teaming, advisory programs, and developmentally appropriate practices, noting that true middle schools improve academic achievement and standardized test scores. Argues against a pendulum swing away from middle school reform and toward standards-based curriculum. (JPB)

This article refutes 10 myths and identifies literature that supports service delivery to infants and toddlers with disabilities in natural settings. The benefits of naturalistic intervention, home-based services, and family-centered services are discussed, and concerns regarding therapist shortages, ethical problems, personal safety of providers,…

Describes how the young children of the Early Learning Center in the Chelsea (Massachusetts) school district learned about Igor Stravinsky's ballet suite, "The Firebird." Explains that children in three kindergarten classes depicted the ballet's characters in a participatory performance. Highlights some qualitative observations. (CMK)

Discusses why the early childhood education curriculum should provide opportunities for children to deal with moral issues and think about right and wrong in developmentally appropriate ways. Suggests ways in which teachers can assist children in this development and activities that promote growing experiences. (ET)

Studies of seven school-sponsored programs conducted by the Harvard Family Research Project and the National Association of State Boards of Education found various innovative approaches to early childhood education. This article describes four major success strategies: organizing an early childhood unit; creating child-centered classrooms;…

Discusses Hyun's examination of developmentally appropriate multicultural education in early childhood education, noting applications of the theory and techniques to the Canadian education system. Considers the book a timely, informed, and challenging contribution to the process of developing multicultural education. (JPB)

There are three building-design factors vital to young children: protection, interaction, and scale. School and classroom scale (fixtures, cabinets, doorknobs, furniture) should be suited to young children. Sample designs from Scarsdale, New York, and Kansas City, Missouri, are presented. (MLH)

Discusses the strengths and shortcomings of "A Foundation for Implementation," a document written by early childhood teachers from Manitoba, Canada, to guide literacy and language arts instruction. Notes the importance of teacher empowerment in creating the curriculum and of developmentally appropriate practices as a foundation. (JPB)

Movement is essential to the physical and cognitive development of young children. Developmentally appropriate dance and movement activities at preschools and elementary schools in Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska are described, along with connections between movement and literacy and numeracy instruction. (SV)

Discusses the use of developmentally appropriate religion-based literature in early-childhood education to address children's inquiries about God and religion. Suggests that these literature experiences can extend children's knowledge base, cultivate their critical-thinking skills, and develop their tolerance for religion-based differences.…

Presents a list of educational computer software rated developmentally appropriate and without social bias for young children in two age groups: 3-7 and 8-12 years old. Presents overviews of the best software in each category, and includes contact numbers and World Wide Web addresses for the publishers. (JPB)

Introduces this special theme issue discussing tensions in education stemming from public school reform. Discusses the issue's focus on (1) standardized testing; (2) developmentally appropriate practice; and (3) full inclusion. Concludes that despite seemingly irreconcilable tensions, public schools have strong public support. (KB)

Maintains that research fails to capture the diversity in teaching. Advocates caution in assuming one correct child rearing or educational practice. Discusses whether categories such as developmentally appropriate practice or developmental stages are facts of nature, interpretations, or perspectives on social processes; and whether developmentally…