This manuscript focuses on neuroscience research that may have applicability for early childhood educators. Beginning with cautions about the usefulness of neurosciences, we offer reviews of several ideas that can inform the practice of early childhood educators. We begin with the understanding that reading is not innate, meaning that every brain…

Physical activity is an essential component for lifelong wellness and the quality of life. Over the past years, childhood obesity has dramatically increased. Data supports that young children are adopting sedentary behaviors within and outside of school hours that may contribute to obesity and other health-related diseases. This paper provides…

Poverty-related factors place children at higher risk for disabilities and also serve as barriers to families accessing services for their children and themselves. Early childhood practitioners can play a critical role in supporting families by providing services to overcome these obstacles and by working in partnership with specialized early…

There are various opinions concerning the value of positive reinforcement when discussing modifying behaviors of young children. In some cases, individuals considered positive reinforcement difficult to implement and, in extreme cases, even felt it to be detrimental. Educators often use praise interchangeably with positive reinforcement when…

The purpose of this article is to critically review the literature on parent-implemented interventions aimed at promoting and enhancing the social and communicative behavior of young children with autism spectrum disorders. Twelve parent-implemented intervention studies that were conducted, at least in part, in home environments and were published…

Defines obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as an anxiety disorder characterized by the presence of mental obsessions or repetitive behaviors based on psychological fears. Lists warning signs for teachers and suggestions for educational services for children with OCD. (LBT)

Notes that current research on early brain development emphasizes early care and education. Cautions educators to interpret and correctly translate this information into appropriate, effective child care and early education practices. Highlights pros and cons of research findings in: (1) child development; (2) special needs intervention; (3) care…

This article on professional roles in early intervention introduces the concept of expanding roles to include collaborative reflective inquiry within communities of practice as one way to reform professional practices. It suggests that reflection within communities of practice extends the understanding of individual professionals but also holds…

Describes a fifth grade social studies program that aims to sensitize children to the problems of sexism in American society. (Author/ED)

Outlines reasons and gives suggestions for teaching accurate nutrition information in a context relevant to each child and his or her family. (Author/ED)

A summary of research on humor that has practical implications for those who work with children. (Author/MP)

Explains that adolescence is the process of "becoming" and suggests that anyone who spends time around teens participates in the crises of becoming. (Author/MP)

Presents recommendations for parents and educators who want to affect state policies and legislation for children. (MP)

Uses the authors' experiences in Texas to suggest some strategies that teachers and parents can use to affect the state legislative process. (MP)

Presents a stage-structure analysis of reading applicable to any method of reading a teacher might choose to use. (Author/MP)