This article describes six service features honoring diversity in early childhood special education (ECSE) programs as identified and piloted in the 3-year federally funded demonstration program, CROSSROADS. CROSSROADS provided technical assistance to ECSE programs with children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Examples…

The "Inventory of Disability Representation" was administered to 92 teachers representing kindergarten, community child care, or preschool settings. Low scores across settings indicated that classrooms typically do not have materials that represent or depict children with diverse abilities. Reasons cited by teachers are noted as are benefits…

This article describes peer coaching as a method for teacher improvement and offers guidelines for establishing a peer coaching program for early childhood and early childhood special education teachers and related services professionals. It also identifies common problems and possible solutions of peer coaching programs. Sample forms for use in…

This article first describes various augmentative communication systems including sign language, picture symbols, and voice output communication devices. It then explains ways to embed augmentative communication within four types of early childhood classroom activities: (1) special or planned activities, (2) meal time, (3) circle time, and (4)…

Discusses creative dramatics as an experiential and interactive play process comprised of three phases: (1) pantomiming action; (2) improvising words; and (3) building plot and characters. Contains teacher information on guiding and encouraging playmaking, creating a developmentally appropriate dramatics program, and the expected benefits of…

Encourages educators to address the following issues related to the use of technology: (1) role of teacher evaluation; (2) benefits of appropriate use; (3) integration into learning environment; (4) equitable access, especially for children with special needs; (5) stereotyping and violence in software; (6) role of teachers and parents as…

Argues that developmentally appropriate computer software selection is a critical teacher decision. Recommends evaluation of child features, teacher features, and technical features. Provides a teacher checklist in each feature area to assist evaluation of the software's appropriateness and also a listing of children's software reviewers. (SD)

Argues that although computers may promote the early childhood educator model of teaching, there are reasons for concern in the classroom with computers. Cautions against using a child's computer competence to measure developmental and intellectual abilities and levels. Argues that education is a social experience which computers cannot simulate.…

Argues that educators of young children need to prioritize exercise in their students' lives to enhance physical and psychological health. Guides teachers in creating developmentally appropriate exercise, creative movement activities, movement and make believe activities, and health stops. Provides specific daily activities, references, and…

Notes that most playgrounds for young children fail to encourage children's respect for or interaction with the natural environment, and offers a rationale and some ideas and guidelines for playground improvement. Focuses on how to use the outdoor play area to foster an understanding and appreciation of the natural environment. (Author/SD)

Preschools provide a large proportion of children's daily food intake. This article guides child care center staff in understanding child nutrition guidelines and translating good nutrition into meal planning. It contains resources for menu planning, cooking, and food safety and includes specific recipes, a weekly meal planner, and contacts for…

Uses case study to present grief counseling guidelines for members of the school, community, and concerned parents affected by death. Argues that information lessens fear, and memorializing or commemorating the deceased helps children understand death and creates a foundation for the grief process. Lists age-oriented concepts of death,…

Illustrates with a case study example the importance of teachers helping young children deal with a death. Presents specific dialogs for dealing with the victim of the tragedy, the classmates, and the employees of the classroom. Focuses on teacher roles and contributions in the understanding and coping processes. (SD)

Argues that teachers of children with seriously ill siblings are important as constancy figures, crisis interventionists, and support mechanisms. Details common reactions of well siblings including guilt, jealousy, rejection, isolation, and fear. Discusses responses that facilitate coping that teachers can make to behavioral and physical…

Describes problems for a university-based child development laboratory of decreased university funding, overworked staff, and huge public demand. Explains that instead of conventional responses, the program was redesigned by decreasing enrollment and increasing length of the remaining program, thereby maintaining income levels and addressing…