2.03 Developmentally Appropriate Practice

What is the definition of developmentally appropriate practice according to NAEYC?

• Methods that promote each child’s optimal development and learning through a strengths-based, play-based approach to joyful, engaged learning.

• Methods that focus on academic achievement and standardized testing.

• Methods that prioritize discipline and obedience.

• Methods that encourage competition and individual achievement.

Which of the following is NOT a guideline for developmentally appropriate practice?

• Creating a caring community of learners.

• Engaging in reciprocal partnerships with families and fostering community connections.

• Observing, documenting, and assessing children’s development and learning.

• Teaching to enhance each child’s development and learning.

What are the principles of developmentally appropriate practice?

• Development and learning are dynamic processes that reflect the complex interplay between a child’s biological characteristics and the environment.

• All domains of child development are important; each domain both supports and is supported by the others.

• Play promotes joyful learning that fosters self-regulation, language, cognitive and social competencies, as well as content knowledge across disciplines.

• All of the above.

What is the role of play in developmentally appropriate practice?

• Play is essential for all children, from birth through age 8.

• Play promotes joyful learning that fosters self-regulation, language, cognitive and social competencies, as well as content knowledge across disciplines.

• Play supports children's emotional and social development.

• All of the above.

Why is it important to consider cultural contexts, experiences, and individual differences in developmentally appropriate practice?

• Because general progressions of development and learning can be identified.

• Because variations in cultural contexts, experiences, and individual differences can impact a child's development and learning.

• Because it helps create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

• All of the above.

What is the role of technology and interactive media in developmentally appropriate practice?

• Technology and interactive media should be avoided in early childhood education.

• Technology and interactive media can be valuable tools for supporting children’s development and learning when used responsibly and intentionally.

• Technology and interactive media should replace traditional teaching methods.

• Technology and interactive media have no impact on children's development and learning.

Which is NOT a developmentally appropriate teaching strategy?

• Acknowledge what children do or say.

• Encourage persistence and effort rather than just praising and evaluating what the child has done.

• Give specific feedback rather than general comments.

• Expecting children to know how to behave.

Which of the following is NOT a domain of development in early childhood?

• Approaches to play and learning

• Emotional and social development

• Health and physical development

• Mathematical development

What factors should be considered in curriculum planning for developmentally appropriate practice?

• Activities, experiences, interactions with others

• The environment

• Materials and equipment

• All of the above.

What are the aspects of a curriculum in developmentally appropriate practice?

• Goals

• Skills and knowledge

• Activities/experiences/opportunities

• All of the above.