The Iowa Department of Education specifies early childhood education as that education that affects children from birth to 5 years. Many early childhood programs are also called preschool programs when they affect children aged 2 to 5.
Early childhood standards are meant to improve programs for preschool-aged children. These programs help provide a positive foundation for future learning outcomes, the Iowa Department of Education says. In addition, early childhood programs help provide these students with a wide variety of experiences that can foster learning opportunities. In addition, the Early Childhood Advisory Council to the Massachusetts Board of Education says that children who are traditionally at-risk fare better in school when they've had an early childhood education compared to those who did not.
The Early Childhood Advisory Council to the Massachusetts Board of Education says that young children learn by doing and teachers should provide ample opportunities for children to interact with their environment. Dramatic play can be used to teach a variety of instructional concepts.
Early children programs should emphasize the development of language skills, as these are the best predictors for academic success. Teachers can help students improve their vocabularies and other language skills.
In addition, the Early Childhood Advisory Council to the Massachusetts Board of Education says that children learn best when teachers structure curriculum and activities so that students can plan, play, reflect, revisit and connect with new knowledge. Most of the time, children will be able to do this through interaction with other students, teachers and structured activities.
Finally, early childhood education curriculum should assume that all children are capable of learning, despite their background.
The Early Childhood Advisory Council to the Massachusetts Board of Education says that knowledge of child development is necessary when planning program standards for early education. Teachers and caregivers should have an extensive knowledge of how children work together in group situations and also alone. Teachers must also include parents in the development of curriculum and programs, as parents are the primary teachers for young children. Program staff can work to provide parents with up-to-date developmental information to encourage continual development at home.
Many early education environments also include children with disabilities. Teachers can help these students feel successful by emphasizing what the children can do to help build their confidence.