As more and more states make a commitment to specialized middle level teacher preparation, teacher education programs across the country must make the necessary adjustments to ensure middle level teachers are prepared to be successful. Unfortunately, individual state and institutional requirements often make this challenging and can result in…

Describes a partnership between the Erikson Institute and four Chicago public schools that was intended to enhance the effectiveness of urban education of low-income prekindergartners through third graders by means of classes that reflected the principles of developmentally appropriate practice. Discusses results of the project and the…

Noting that most home-schooling materials adhere to conventional schooling at the cost of creativity, this handbook provides guidelines for building a successful home school curriculum, one that avoids student resentment and parent burnout, targets children's interest and motivation, and understands how a child's developmental stages contribute to…

This study examined the relationship between developmentally appropriate and traditional teaching methods and the mathematics achievement of 15 average and 10 students with disabilities. Data were collected in four first grade classes, one second grade class, and one multi-age inclusion program. A descriptive research design was used with…

Examined teachers' beliefs on what constitutes developmentally appropriate literacy instruction. Three teachers were interviewed, observed during planning and instruction time, and asked to reflect on their beliefs and practicing. Through practice, they came to believe that appropriate literacy instruction involves a variety of instructional…

Examining problems and questions related to full-day kindergarten, this book deals broadly with early childhood curriculum design and development. It suggests specific step-by-step ways to plan an emergent curriculum based upon integrated, dynamic themes that grow out of children's diverse personal and cultural experiences. Addressed to teachers,…

Within the field of early childhood education, several issues are currently being debated and many new developments are emerging. One of these trends is toward the expansion and redefinition of early childhood education to include all educational experiences for children from birth to 8 years of age. Another trend is the increased interest in…