The current trend of hurrying a child's development, as evidenced by the popularity of disposable pants for toilet training, is criticized. The pants frustrate both parents and children and, it is concluded, serve no useful purpose in the toilet-learning process. (LB)

Addresses the origins of the American school readiness myth, arguing that Americans are far too preoccupied with readiness. Concludes that early childhood professionals need to address and demystify this myth by defining early childhood education in the content-oriented context of what young children should know and be able to do. (SD)

Describes North Carolina's efforts to develop a school readiness definition and assessment plan, focusing on differentiating readiness from eligibility and giving equal weight to schools' capacity to educate all children. Presents selected findings from the statewide assessment. Describes dilemmas faced by the state and their resolutions.…

Definitions, theory, and educational practice relevant to school readiness are discussed. Strategies to promote school readiness in the future should (1) redefine readiness and set performance standards; (2) redefine the assessment of readiness; and (3) reallocate the responsibility helping children get ready for school. (LB)

Explores the possible influences of commercial and educational television on young children's imaginative play, intellectual development and behavior. Commercialism, learning readiness, television's unique mode of communication, and the child's sensory experiences while viewing are considered from the standpoint of developmental needs. (SDH)

Problems of integrating children from early education programs (3-to-5-year-olds) into the structure and curriculum of kindergarten are discussed in relation to the changing roles of both kindergarten and early education teachers. (BRT)

Reflects on what is to be done if a child is not ready for the standard first grade after a year in kindergarten. Proposes that elementary schools have developmental curricula that allow children to move through an ungraded system at a pace in keeping with their own development. (NH)

Discusses the first national education goal, which concerns children starting school ready to learn. Outlines the position of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and reports on activities of the National Education Goals Panel. NAEYC calls for a commitment to addressing inequities in children's lives, supporting…

This article describes the Early Years Summit, meetings between kindergarten and preschool educators in New Canaan, Connecticut, to improve communication and foster collaboration. Outcomes included defining the kindergarten curricula and outlining expectations for children's preschool experiences. The Summit collaboratively drafted a statement of…

Explores current practices in kindergarten education and describes the knowledge base related to kindergarten. Considers implications for making kindergarten a place where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Includes discussion of the kindergarten students, readiness-based interventions, scheduling, and kindergarten activities. (KB)

Describes a program in Colombia to enhance learning of lower class children by emphasizing acceptance, risk taking, and problem solving in a supportive environment. Parental involvement is stressed. The back-to-the-basics movement is discussed as an educational strategy antithetical to the author's philosophy. (DB)

Discusses ways young children, families, and caregivers can work together in toilet learning. Describes signs of child readiness, and ways teachers can be supportive at this stage. Presents a classroom plan to facilitate toileting for 2- and 3- year-olds. Includes tips for parents and for caregivers related to toileting materials, toileting…

Discusses assumptions and pressures underlying academic redshirting for kindergartners. Examines teachers' and parents' beliefs about kindergarten readiness. Summarizes research on the effects of the academic and social domains of delaying children's entry into school. Offers suggestions for early childhood educators about how to help families in…

Advocates the implementation of the same developmentally appropriate principles and practices that govern good preschool programs in elementary school programs as well. These practices involve understanding children and their levels of development, working with the whole child, fostering integrated learning, and encouraging parent participation.…