Developmentally Appropriate Practices
Developmental programming is based on the premise that children develop in predictable ages and stages. It allows each child to develop his/her physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth at his/her own pace. Children are naturally curious, active, and creative; especially when their environment provides flexibility and different interest areas.
Caregivers encourage learning by providing a positive atmosphere that is conductive to the needs of each child. Well-defined areas, such as blocks, dramatic play, manipulative and library are permanent areas of the classroom. Other learning areas may be temporary to correspond with curriculum themes, or in the case of science, found in many areas of the room.
Learning centers provide appropriate materials to encourage children to become independent decision-makers. Each area is designed to stimulate a number of activities, both for the individual children and groups. All rooms are child-oriented; furniture and displays are all child height. This helps contribute to the child's comfort and feeling of self-worth.
Curriculum planning is an essential part of the developmental program. Pre-planning allows the adult to spend the majority of his/her time interacting with the children. Play is children's work and children learn sensorially, so the caregiver acts as a guide and resource in child initiated activities.
Establishing a daily schedule contributes to self-control in children by providing consistency, security, and direction. The daily routine enables children to know what to expect and what comes first, next, and last. They are free to make choices, carry them out, and prepare for the next activity. The schedule helps children avoid confusion, and meets the adult's need for an orderly learning environment.
Rules and limits are established for the safety of the children. The rules are few and simple, and are followed by both children and adults. Guidance is used to develop self-control. Children learn that they are responsible for their own actions. They are taught to respect themselves and others and to show that respect. A well organized, planned environment where children are given freedom of choice reduces the necessity for many disciplinary actions.
Adults must understand and respect early childhood development, and be aware of the needs of individual children. Quality developmental programming concentrates on the whole child, recognizing that children acquire skills at different age levels. Children of the same age will differ in their rate of development. A child who is moving, talking, and doing, is a child who is learning and developing.