"Joint productive activity" (JPA) is a research-based strategy for effective teaching and learning. JPA fosters social and cognitive development among young learners. In this article, the authors describe JPA, connect the research to practice, and discuss how they use JPA at their early childhood center.

Experts say that good mathematics instruction engages all students as active learners (NAEYC & NCTM 2002). It begins with their current skills and builds new knowledge that is meaningful and appropriate for each child (Baroody 1998). Effective math instruction allows children to develop positive attitudes toward math instead of negative ones…

Discusses methods for promoting cooperative learning among preschoolers and the history of these methods. Describes class projects and activities at Dai-ichi Preschool in Japan, which uses group and individual activities to build a classroom group that fosters children's growth and creativity and supports children's efforts. (BB)