Two curricula, Englemann-Becker and New Nursery School, were analyzed for effectiveness with Head Start children over a period of eight months, using the Slosson and Merrill-Palmer tests, a socialization scale and classroom observations. In congnitive development, there are no significant differences between the two curricula as used by teachers…

This document brings together two preliminary reports on field research undertaken as part of the Children's Folklore Program of the Southwest Educational Development Laboratory. This research is an inquiry into the nature and function of the traditional, expressive activities of Black, Mexican-American and Anglo children, of both sexes, between…

Maintains that learning to read must take advantage of the child's natural playful tendencies. Shows how stories in widely-used school primers make use of trick themes based on puns, figures of speech, or metaphors. Concludes that such stories should be used to reinforce the relationship between reading and natural language. (JDH)

Describes social behaviors of preschool children in relation to second-language development observed in a multicultural preschool program. The discussion includes examples of behaviors observed early in the year and of early stages of cooperative and sociodramatic play, and observations on the children's cultural adjustments and individual…

Seventy-five families of children with special needs were interviewed after one year's experience with early intervention services and 69 of these families were then re-interviewed a year later after two years of such services. Five themes were identified in the families' views of "what works well." These were: (1) consistency of staff, (2) home…

In child-centered education programs, children construct their own knowledge from their experiences and interactions with the world around them, and teachers foster children's growth and development by building on children's interests, needs, and strengths within a safe and caring environment. The Step by Step educational program developed a…

Compiling essays authored by Benjamin Spock and published in popular magazines, this book explores current trends that have an impact on raising children. The chapters are: (1) "Teaching Values to Children," discussing important values to share, and the value of duties and responsibilities at an early age; (2) "Families," examining the changing…

This document consists of 11 monthly newsletter issues, in English and Spanish language versions, exploring topics related to early childhood behavior and parenting. Regularly appearing features are "Library Resources,""Preschoolers in the Kitchen,""Websites for Parents," and "The Doctor's Corner." Major…

Incorporating information and perspectives from national and state preschool education standards and other resources, this document presents the guiding principles, program goals, content standards and performance standards for domains of development for preschool children in Connecticut. The four domains are: (1) personal and social development;…

This national survey examined the level of knowledge of 3,000 American adults (including 1,066 parents of children aged birth to 6 years) regarding child development issues, with particular emphasis on the intellectual, emotional, and social development of young children. The study also examined what the general public thinks about selected…

This document collects 15 brief guides to staff training in inclusive early childhood education settings. Guides offer examples of successful programs, research findings, and practical tips. Titles are: (1) "Giving Families Better Access to Early Intervention Services"; (2) "Creating Integrated Classrooms that Work"; (3) "Seamless Transition…

Noting that after-school programs are becoming an important developmental support for low- and moderate-income families and their children, this book describes the historical development of these programs, their current status, and critical issues facing after-school programs. Divided into historical eras, the book examines: (1) the evolution of…

Recognizing the role of physical activity in helping young children to attain desired objectives, educators should continually be investigating avenues for involving children in daily physical activity. This paper presents the Active Living approach, a uniquely Canadian experience that encourages young children to be physically active every day.…

Examined how preschoolers' experiences with mixed-age peers in family child care homes affect development. Found that interaction with younger and same-age peers was associated with less complex social and cognitive play and lower receptive language scores. Interaction with older peers was related to more complex cognitive play. The setting…

Guides child care centers when investing in outdoor play structures and playground equipment with advice provided by manufacturers and dealers. Details six factors to consider, including appropriateness, construction, installation, safety, support, and experience. Contains a playground equipment manufacturers and dealers directory that includes…