This study examined participation in preschool and its relationship with the cognitive and social development of language-minority students. Although there is a large body of research that demonstrates the cognitive and social benefits of attending preschool (Barnett, 1995; Gorey, 2001; National Research Council, Committee on Early Childhood…

The Early Learning Accomplishment Profile (Early LAP) provides a systematic method for observing children's functioning in the birth to 36-month age range in order to assist teachers, clinicians, and parents in assessing individual skills development in six developmental domains: gross motor, fine motor, cognition, language, self-help, and social…

Parents and policymakers are turning to preschools to better advance the school readiness and broader development of young children. Much remains unknown, including how preschool programs of varying quality affect diverse groups of children. This is particularly important as several California counties embark on ambitious and costly efforts to…

Educators today have a renewed perspective: when schools attend systematically to students' social and emotional skills, the academic achievement of children increases, the incidence of problem behaviors decreases, the quality of the relationships surrounding each child improves. The challenge of raising knowledgeable, responsible, and caring…

Homelessness influences every facet of children's lives, inhibiting their physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioral development. Homeless women face such obstacles to healthy pregnancies as chemical abuse, chronic health problems, and lack of prenatal care. Homeless infants are more likely to have low birth weights and are at greater…

While the notion of starting education early with children has gained momentum in the public's mind, our public policies and investments still do not reflect society's increasing knowledge of how the human brain grows and how very early experiences beginning at birth affect a child's future. Arguing that if policymakers fail to include the needs…

Discusses social development stages of middle childhood and peer-group relations, noting demands of group conformity. Presents aspects of cognitive and physical development as well as implications for providing effective guidance and counseling services. (RC)

This paper sets out the current situation in a number of schools and institutions of higher education with departments of design. A case is presented for the design curriculum to be regarded as a serious academic subject which makes a unique contribution to pupils' cognitive, emotional, psychomotor, and social development. (Author)

A social cognitive developmental model is presented integrating a Piagetian developmental model and Flavell's processing model, to describe three aspects of development. The utility of the model was tested in two studies. The results demonstrate that it is possible to increase children's social cognitive abilities instructionally. (Author/CTM)

An overview of research and evaluation developments concerning Head Start, preschool education, and day care during the past decade is provided. Possible ramifications for the future are shown from the reexamination of early education programs. (JN)

This article discusses using "PEPSI", a screening and programming method that evaluates the physical, emotional, philosophical, social, and intellectual levels of development in children with disabilities. The steps in the PEPSI screening process are described and a case study is provided. A chart depicting indicators in teaching respect for self…

Examines the use of the garden as a metaphor for cultural diversity and respect for individual differences in children's literature. Identifies and discusses major concepts concerning culture and community in such books as "The Secret Garden"; "Miss Rumphius"; and others. Includes suggested extension activities. (MJP)

This study examined whether cumulative family risk would moderate the relation between regularity of Head Start attendance and child outcomes. Found that the relation between attendance and receptive vocabulary was moderated by cumulative risk, with children from higher risk families benefiting more. Regardless of family risk, attendance predicted…

Subjects in grades 4, 7, 10, college, and adulthood completed forgiveness interview assessing 6 stages of forgiveness development, Rest's Defining Issues Tests measure of justice development, and religiosity scale. Found strong age trends for forgiveness and justice. Second study replicated findings, supporting view that individuals' understanding…

Reviews research on the early development of symbolic play. Suggests that symbolic play begins to emerge near the beginning of the child's second year and continues to play an important role in his or her development throughout the preschool years. Proposes basic techniques caregivers can use to facilitate and promote the development of symbolic…