Academics is not the sole component of school readiness; rather, it is a compilation of children's physical, social--emotional, language, and cognitive development (National Association for the Education of Young Children [NAEYC], 2009; National Education Goal Panels, 1997). The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC,…

The early gender bias experiences that children encounter can shape their attitudes and beliefs related to their development of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships, access to education equality, participation in the corporate work world, as well as stifling their physical and psychological well being. For early childhood educators, being…

Well-informed teachers of young children recognize the importance of children's social development. The development of social skills lays a critical foundation for later academic achievement as well as work-related skills. Social development is such a key issue with young children that a number of methods to address social skills have been…

Many early childhood educators are faced with ever-increasing pressure by families, administrators, and policymakers to replace components of their programs deemed to be a waste of time, such as naptime or playtime, with what are considered to be more academic activities. A large body of literature supports the inclusion of play in an early…

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…

Discusses parents' responses to open-ended questions about changes in early elementary programs initiated by the Kentucky Education Reform Act. Changes include ungraded primary programs and student progress reports to parents. (BB)

Relates one kindergarten teacher's experiences while participating in a research project on the incorporation of portfolio assessments into student progress reports to parents. (BB)

Discusses the role of school recess periods in children's social development and academic achievement. Also examines changing attitudes toward the use of recess periods in the United States and other nations, and presents strategies for classroom teachers to use in advocating school recess periods in their schools and communities. (MDM)