This paper examines the possibility of accelerating the development of intelligence when applying stringent Piagetian standards to evaluate the effects of short- and long-term intervention or instruction programs. The paper reviews previous Genevan and American research that shows that development can be accelerated by means of only a few…

This paper summarizes 10 research-based principles for improving children's reading achievement. The principles are: (1) home language and literacy experiences that lead to development of key print concepts are plentiful; (2) preschool programs are beneficial for children who do not experience informal learning opportunities in their homes; (3)…

This paper provides an overview of Breakthrough to Literacy, a research-based early literacy program that combines interactive software, quality print materials, take-home materials and staff development to provide individualized reading instruction for students. It uses technology to help children understand the relationship between sound, print,…

Challenging the prevailing belief that the first 3 years of a child's life comprise the most critical period for development, this book maintains that although there is valid scientific evidence for the existence of critical periods, the same research points to learning and development occurring throughout life. The book asserts that too many…

This paper highlights research into the positive possibilities for children in school and life when they have access to high-quality care and education before entering public school. Three key components of early care and education are discussed in the paper. The first, quality in early care and education, addresses: (1) What is high quality and…

Caring for infants and toddlers has long been conceptualized in Western society as mothers' work, and consequently devalued. Alternative care for infants and toddlers has lacked a knowledge base like that undergirding preschool education. Factors impeding research on infant/toddler care include strong ideological opposition to nonmaternal care,…

This report analyzes emerging workforce issues as California develops a universal preschool system, focusing on service delivery mechanisms, workforce standards for staff qualifications and compensation, and professional development and higher education system capacity. The review covers current conditions, emerging questions, research findings,…

Research on the validity and reliability of four tests (Group Inventory for Finding Creative Talent, Group Inventory for Finding Interests I and II, and Preschool Interest Descriptor) which use the characteristics approach in screening elementary/secondary students for programs for the creatively gifted is summarized. (CL)

Argues that concepts of literacy develop gradually and that in a natural language environment, saturated with good stories, meaningful conversation, and abundant writing materials, the process can begin even before a child goes to school. (FL)

Appropriate mathematical competencies for children of ages two, three, four, and five are presented. It is suggested that mathematics programs for young children be action oriented. (MP)

Recent history of writing research introduces a treatise on the development of writing abilities in preschool age children. Topics include composing processes, an examination of research done on the function rather than the form of writing, and language variation among various ethnolinguistic groups. (JN)

This review covers four general areas: modification of undesirable behavior; increasing competence; generalization and maintenance; and behavior analysis methods in assessing preschool procedures. These studies support the usefulness of behavioral analysis; however, a major problem is the lack of systematic follow-up or procedures encouraging…

This article summarizes research supporting claims that offering opportunities for planning and reflection in early years promotes development of thinking and reasoning. Strategies to encourage planning include ensuring that children can see areas and materials during planning, asking children questions, encouraging children to elaborate on plans,…

Addresses the conceptualization, assessment, and treatment of social-emotional problems in preschool children. Promising findings, materials, and techniques are reviewed, such as the internalizing-externalizing dichotomy, developmental pathways, the Early Screening Project, the Preschool and Kindergarten Behavior Scales, behavioral momentum to…

This article reviews the literature regarding the seeds of literacy in preschool students. Conclusions indicate that children learn many basic concepts of print communication from daily experience with its use well before any ability to decode writing emerges. Games and other everyday interactions with print are recommended for facilitating…