Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children From Birth Through Age 8

Author: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Publisher: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Publication Date: 1997
Publication City: Washington
Publication State: DC
Full text available online at: http://www.naeyc.org/about/positions/pdf/PSDAP98.PDF

Abstract (written by WestEd)

This position statement of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) presents:

1. a description of the current context of early childhood programs
   
2. a rationale and need for NAEYC's position statement
   
3. a statement of NAEYC's commitment to children
   
4. a definition of developmentally appropriate practice
   
5. 12 principles of childhood development and learning, including theoretical background
   
6. guidelines for making decisions about developmentally appropriate practices that integrate the following components: creating a caring community of learners; teaching to enhance children's learning and development, constructing appropriate curriculum; assessing learning and development; and creating collaborative relationships with families
   
7. 7 recommendations for policies ensuring developmentally appropriate practices for all children