This article contains a review of eight refereed publications that addressed the topic of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP), as that is a topic presently being discussed widely both nationally and internationally. According to the most recent 2009 NAEYC publication on DAP, recommended practices are those "that result from the process of…

The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) was again represented at the annual 2006 DPI/NGO conference, along with 1,600 participants from around the world. The mood this year was somber and quite serious, possibly in response to the uncertainty created by the Middle East crisis that was raging while the conference was taking…

Childhood is a unique and critical stage of life. All children share the same basic needs for safety, health, nurturance, and dignity. The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) is committed to supporting children's development; respecting individual differences; helping children learn to live and work cooperatively; and…

The Association for Childhood Education International has a long and rich history serving as an advocate for children, families, education, and the profession. Position papers and resolutions on such myriad topics as play, standardized testing, and child soldiers show the organization's resolve to continuously move efforts forward for children and…

Following the whirlwind standards movement of the 1980s, the beginning of the 1990s ushered in an overwhelming interest in and use of testing to document students' progress. In 1991, the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) issued its second position paper calling for a moratorium on standardized testing in the early years of…

There is little question that the fundamental purpose of education--what the ancient Greeks referred to as the "telos"--is to promote student learning. For decades, both experts and the general public have agreed that any effort to improve the education system must focus squarely on optimizing student learning, motivating students to achieve, and…

Identifies curricular areas that, in the view of the Association for Childhood Education International, should be addressed in a preparation program for teachers of children from birth through the eighth year. (RH)

This position paper of the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) endorses the elimination of corporal punishment in all environments for children, and notes international initiatives banning corporal punishment. The paper states that corporal punishment is an ineffective discipline strategy with children, and provides detailed…

The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) is among the oldest professional education organizations in the world and the only international organization of its kind that focuses on the development of the whole child from birth through early adolescence. Given the current sad state of world affairs and the plight of millions of…

Advances support for developmental child care, an approach which includes the protective and child-maintaining sense of custodial child care plus the stimulating sense of educational child care. Stresses both the immediacy and scope of need for providing appropriate child care. (RWB)

Reviews reasons for the Association for Childhood Education International's opposition to standardized testing of children in the early grades. Discusses two alternative approaches: nonstructured assessments and structured assessments. Considers parents' and teachers' roles in these forms of assessments, and the teacher training that is needed.…

Describes the characteristics of play and its contributions to development, and proposes fundamental principles and practices for its encouragement. Delineates the necessity of play and affirms its centrality in the lives of all children. Stresses both teacher and parental roles in providing a safe and calalytic play environment. (Author/RWB)

Presents position of the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) regarding children and play. Discusses ACEI's fundamental beliefs about the importance of play, citing supporting research and theory. Presents guiding principles and practices for play experiences, focusing on adults' crucial role in structuring and planning the…

Details position of the Association for Childhood Education International regarding best practice for child-centered middle schools. Makes recommendations regarding curriculum, instructional practices and learning environment, guidance and counseling, textbooks and materials, teacher qualifications, and administrative and community support. (KB)

Reviews the history and uses of standardized testing, and suggests alternative methods of assessment. States the belief that testing exerts undue pressure on children, provides no useful information on individual children, and limits educational possibilities. Discusses the Association for Childhood Education International position paper which…