Structure plays an important role in current efforts to transform traditional classrooms into collaborative, self-directed learning communities. Teachers work with students to create a sense of order based on shared understandings. The resulting structure has three characteristics: a well-organized classroom environment, predictable daily…

This paper describes three early childhood curriculum frameworks that acknowledge the different needs and abilities of infants and toddlers, preschool and kindergarten children, and children in grades one through three. Infants and toddlers are at the stage of establishing trust and autonomy. Because these issues are addressed in the context of…

Fostering resilience does not require elementary teachers to overburden the curriculum. Research shows that resiliency-fostering experiences occur when children are involved in assessing their own work and setting goals, participate in developing standards for work and classroom life, have opportunities to collaborate and make choices, participate…

Noting the crucial role parents play in their child's academic success, this book offers parents guidance in supporting their child's education in the primary grades. The book's chapters are: (1) "Learning in the Early Grades," including questions parents ask, what 6- to 8-year-old children are like, principles that make learning effective, why…

Noting that a high-quality preschool program is one that promotes learning through rich play experiences, this book gives parents information needed to select the right preschool for their children. Chapter 1, "Thinking about Preschool," discusses questions parents ask, practical considerations, beginning the search, and the screening phone call.…

Addressed primarily to elementary school teachers working with children in grades one through three and grounded in developmentally appropriate practice, this book provides a practical framework for making teaching effective and learning meaningful for children in these early grades. Chapters in Part 1 of the book each present one of six teaching…