A number of states are considering policy proposals to update credential or degree requirements for early educators. Practitioners, policy experts, and researchers have expressed concern, however, that well-intentioned policies to raise educator qualifications without sufficient supports may have negative consequences for the adequacy; stability;…

The ages between 10 and 14 years represent a period of transition between childhood and adolescence when feelings of confusion, anxiety, excitement, and frustration are widely experienced. During this period, early adolescents undergo major developmental changes. Educators working with these young people need accurate knowledge of early…

Argues that physical education can provide powerful contributions to an integrated curriculum approach. Explains how the theme of human interaction links social studies and physical education. Provides suggestions for integrating the two subjects in the primary grades, the middle elementary grades, and the upper elementary grades. (CFR)

This position paper was written to assist teachers and administrators in Oregon in preparing curriculum and setting priorities for kindergarten programs. It begins by asserting that the focus of kindergarten instruction should be on the total development of the child: socioemotional, physical, and intellectual. The need for concrete learning…

A review of recent sex education literature is presented in an attempt to integrate observations and recommendations related to both program development and innovation acceptance. A Developmental Research and Utilization Model is employed to systematically guide planning, implementation, evaluation, advocacy, and institutionalization. Curriculum…

This book is designed to guide teachers through the process of creating a developmentally appropriate rhythmic gymnastics program for children age 5-11. Rhythmic gymnastics programs develop fitness, inspire creativity, and allow all children to work at their own level. The book features 10 chapters in two parts. Part 1, "Getting Started on a…

This curriculum planning guide is designed to help Montana school districts design an appropriate tobacco use prevention and education program. It focuses on: "Tobacco Use Prevention Education: The OPI (Office of Public Instruction) Perspective"; "Instructional Guidelines" (key issues in program planning and major health…

A state-of-the-art report on music education in elementary schools. (CM)

A process engaged in by the West Chester University (Pennsylvania) teacher education program began with a faculty seminar on racial, class, and gender identity and culminated in the redesign of courses in special education and child development. Theory of the stages of racial identity formation proved useful in interpreting both faculty and…

Space and shape, estimating and measuring, and number are viewed as the three strands of mathematics that come together as a child develops mathematically. Five cognitive/mathematical levels of development, labeled discrimination, order, application, operation, and estimation, are identified and discussed. (MP)

Emphasizes the educational benefits derived from research in dramatics arts. Cites research indicating that role playing has a positive effect on oral language, moral reasoning, and self-esteem. Points out that teachers and administrators do not include dramatic instruction in their curriculum, and offers ways to make dramatic arts more appealing.…

"Involving Parents in Their Children's Learning" is the story of the pioneering work of the Pen Green Centre for children and families. Showing how early years practitioners can collaborate effectively with parents, the book includes case studies of parents and children who have attended the centre, studies which chart developments in learning for…

Designed for use in curriculum development and as an instructional guide for preschool programs in Shasta County, California, this framework provides information on curriculum areas, developmental indicators, and appropriate activities at the preschool level. Specifically, this framework represents a resource for teachers, curriculum specialists,…

Implemented in an urban community college's child development teacher training program, this practicum project addressed the problem of discrepancies between training and work environments. General goals of the practicum were: (1) to design a learning styles training format for preschool teachers; (2) to provide teachers with factual information…

Recommends the introduction of social studies/social science content into early childhood and elementary grade curricula. Gives examples of activities based on simple concepts in history, psychology, and geography. (AV)