Overview of NAEYC Standards Early Childhood Program of

Overview of NAEYC Standards Early Childhood Program of Standards

1. Relationships Positive relationships are encouraged between everyone in the classroom, children and adults. These positive relationships benefit children by leading to higher self worth, better self-regulation, and respect for others. These positive relationships also provide a better learning environment for all children.

2. Curriculum A consistent curriculum should be used as a guide by teachers to develop several different content areas. The content areas included should be social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive. The daily schedule should teach through “effective use of time, materials used for play, self-initiated learning, and creative expression. ” The curriculum should also allow for individual and group learning.

3. Teaching Several different teaching methods should be used from “structured to unstructured and from adult directed to child directed. ” The children’s individual needs, backgrounds, learning style, and interests should be considered when deciding which teaching methods to use. The teacher and any support staff should work together “as a team. ”

4. Assessment of Child Progress The children should be assessed by “systematic, formal, and informal” methods to provide information on their “learning and development. ” The assessment should be used to determine which children could benefit from more help in learning the material. The assessment information can let the teacher know if the program is meeting its goals and where it needs improvement.

5. Health To completely benefit from the program children need to be completely healthy - not just free from illness or disease. Children need adults to teach them to be healthy. The program should take steps to prevent dangerous practices and environments.

6. Teachers should have formal education in early childhood learning and development. These teachers are more likely to have a positive relationship with the children and offer a richer learning environment. Teachers should receive the support they need and have the opportunity to advance their education.

7. Families A positive relationship is maintained with the children’s family rooted in trust and respect. Families are encouraged to be involved in their child’s learning Relationships with the children’s families are respectful of the family’s “composition, language and culture. ”

8. Community Relationships are established with community resources. The program uses the community resources to help it achieve it’s educational goals. The program helps connect families with available community resources.

9. Physical Environment The setting of the program is “welcoming and accessible for children, families, and staff. ” The indoor and outdoor environments meet the children’s needs and are wellmaintained. The program’s physical environment is set up for “optimal use and operation. ”

10. Leadership and Management The program has staff in leadership roles that are “competent and knowledgeable. ” The program has well thought out administrative policies and procedures. There is accountability, good communication, helpful support, and a pleasant work environment.