Description

Directors make decisions based on their knowledge of early childhood education and current child development theories and research. They guide curriculum development by building and leading an early childhood team. The term Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) was originally coined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The position statement on DAP in early childhood programs states that the foundation of DAP is based on what is both individually appropriate and age appropriate planning. In order to ensure quality, this training explores five key areas of Developmentally Appropriate Practice: shared vision and center goal setting, child development, observation and assessment, lesson plan development and appropriate materials. The training will assist directors in meeting the developmental needs of each child by implementing a purposeful and relationship-based curriculum. Participants will have the opportunity to explore tools and methods of guiding staff to ensure meaningful learning experiences based on the individual needs of the child. In addition, directors will be supported in the process of leading and guiding staff to incorporate their experiences and cultural backgrounds into a diverse developmentally appropriate curriculum.