A review of the literature on mixed-age settings reveals benefits in the areas of social and cognitive development. Research on the psychosocial advantages of mixed-age groupings is less consistent. Factors such as group size, age range, time together, and context-specific curriculum activities may have a relationship to the level of success and…

Reviews studies examining children's nurturing behaviors and suggests ways to encourage those behaviors in early childhood settings. Discusses age, gender, and cultural differences in the nurturing behavior of young children. Recommends that teachers expose children to positive role models and suggests several children's books with characters that…

Reviews current literature on mentor-program development and provides guidelines based on an Arkansas early-childhood-educator mentor program. Highlights areas of concern, including mentoring definition; effect of mentoring on mentor; communication and listening skills; characteristics and attitude of effective mentors; aiding mentors to insulate…

Examines the effects of drug use during pregnancy on early and later child development, the extent of women's drug use, and behavioral and learning characteristics of children prenatally exposed to drugs. Provides intervention guidelines for early childhood settings including children with prenatal drug exposure, focusing on recommendations for…