Early childhood curricula are constructed from what is deemed important for young children's development and learning nationally, while influenced by international policy developments. Following concerns surrounding international neo-liberal agendas in early childhood policy formation, this article examines the position of young children's…

Purpose: The purpose of this article was to systematically review studies that explored associations between specific curricular models, as an essential component of physical education, and to assess how the student outcomes identified in the models aligned with the national standards. Methods: Using the PRISMA guidelines to identify, screen,…

This paper explores the research literature surrounding beliefs about children's play and the rationale for using play-based programming as part of early childhood special education practices. Discussions of recommended practices for educating or serving the needs of children typically refer to developmentally appropriate practice (DAP). DAP is…

Through the process of manipulating language through speech play, young children learn the rules of their linguistic system. Metalinguistic awareness implies access to the rule system of language and the ability to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable language usage. (JN)

Reviews the literature on the role of play in a young child's development and describes the development of a preschool play-based curriculum for children with disabilities. Distinguishes types of play and discusses important play spaces in the physical environment, adult/child interactions, accommodations to meet individual needs, and assessment.…

The historical development of play within the public school curriculum is traced from its origins in eighteenth century French Revolutionary society through Pre-Industrial and Industrial America and Europe, the Progressive and Post World War II Eras, the Protest Era of the 1960s up to modern times. Predictions for the future are also offered. (JN)

This paper challenges notions of gendered game playing practice implicit in much research into young women's involvement with the computer gaming culture. It draws on a study of Australian teenagers playing "The Sims Deluxe" as part of an English curriculum unit and insights from feminist media studies to explore relationships between…

Explores the importance of play in the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of young children. Functional, constructive, and dramatic play, and games with rules, are examined. Suggests that play is a powerful curricular tool for the kindergarten and primary classroom. Investigates ways to integrate play into the curriculum and to…

The Parent as a Teacher Inventory was used to determine expectations of Anglo and Hispanic parents whose children were underrepresented in gifted education programs. Parent responses to the inventory, and a parent education curriculum that was developed based on the responses, are discussed. (BG)

Recommends that drama be included in early childhood education, emphasizing preschool education. Cites research linking drama with enhanced language acquisition in children, ages 3-8. Emphasizes drama's effectiveness as a multisensory learning medium. Notes programs offering drama training for teachers. Suggests changes in teacher education and…

Highlighting the importance of teaching practice grounded in a consciously held, critically examined philosophical framework, this book examines the contribution of John Dewey's philosophy to the early childhood teacher's theoretical base for practical direction and decision making. A detailed account of how Dewey's educational philosophy may be…