Describes one kindergarten classroom's experience creating a rock and fossils museum exhibit and the excitement and learning that occurred when the children become directly involved in the project. Using the framework of the project approach, math, science, art, writing, and social studies content areas were involved. (ET)

Describes a program called PITCH (Project Interconnecting Teachers, Children and Homes) for Literacy, a parent involvement program that offered a series of workshops to elementary and preschool teachers and administrators in order to improve home-school relationships. Provides guidelines, references, and resources for similar efforts. (ET)

Today's young children need people committed to making the world a more caring place that offers every child and family the opportunity to thrive. This article presents five steps that any individual can take to become an active advocate for children, letting others know that the learning and experiences of early childhood shape a child's entire…

Stresses the need to understand respective children's personalities, learning styles, preferences, special abilities, and family heritage--including culture, language, values, members, and history. With increasing numbers of diverse families served by early-care and education programs, encourages those involved in the care and education of young…

States that puzzles are an important tool in helping children engage in the problem-solving process. Claims that children are interested in puzzles because they can be active as observers, problem solvers, and learners, with little or no assistance from adults and others. Defines nine characteristics of good puzzle-making situations. (MOK)

Claims that classroom lighting may have an influence on children's learning experiences because children experience the world primarily through sensory and motor experiences. Describes a preschool teacher's experience of adjusting an overbright classroom with full-spectrum bulbs and how, as a result, the children appeared to be more relaxed and…

Claims that almost none of the preschool design literature bridges the interest and technical concern of architects and education professionals. Offers design suggestions for classrooms, outdoor spaces, shared spaces, offices, teachers' space, and a place for parents. Discusses general design issues such as textures and colors, materials, security…

Claims that involving children in the process of gardening--selecting seeds and plants, planting, tending the garden, and harvesting the crop--helps them see the natural process of growing plants. Introduces container, square-foot, raised, and conventional gardens. Gives suggestions on what and when to plant as well as tips on gardening and…

Claims that children have a natural curiosity for their environment. Describes children's interaction and involvement in an activity with different kinds of insects in a Head Start classroom. Encourages parents to allow children to investigate without being too preoccupied with concerns for order or cleanliness. (MOK)

Describes a teacher's experience with students during their first- and second-grade years. Claims that meaningful learning in a variety of curricular areas occurs when children are interested in a topic. Suggests that teachers capitalize on these situations and create learning experiences that reflect those outside the classroom. Suggests the use…

Notes society's increasing demands that men assume a more active role as fathers. Lists five principles for developing a male involvement program in child care settings outside of home. Claims that these programs can be successful if female facilitators are sensitive to gender differences in communication and aware of the unique needs men bring to…

Claims that increasingly, decisions about whether or how resources will be allocated to young children and families will be made at the state level. Explores the questions answered by the policy document, "Map and Track: State Initiatives for Young Children and Families," and the significance of these questions. Highlights findings and…

Reviews the book, "Educating Young Children: Active Learning Practices for Preschool and Child Care Programs," by Mary Hohmann and David P. Weikart. Comments on how this resource and other High/Scope Educational Research Foundation initiatives have contributed to the broader field of early childhood education. (MOK)

Surveyed how children or parents derived benefits from early childhood intervention programs for low-income families. Found that such programs provide appropriate and stimulating learning environments for young children and support the roles of parents. Participants have higher academic achievement and parents made positive changes in their own…

Discusses the educational philosophy of Henry Maier, a developmentalist who focuses on traditionally defined child and youth practices. Claims that children thrive in a developmentally safe environment that includes exploratory, child-paced time to manipulate objects, interact with others in sociodramatic play, and solve problems. Discusses signs…