This paper discusses the nature of language knowledge and the manner in which children come to acquire this knowledge. Among the topics discussed are language production and the ability to understand sentences never heard before, sentence formation, children's construction of rules, children's language creativity, language acquisition and age,…

To update the California State Department of Education's recommended list of books for children ages two through seven (most books on the present list were published before 1990), this annotated bibliography reviewed current books recommended by the National Council of Teachers of English, the International Reading Association, and literature…

Maintains that one of the most difficult aspects of early childhood teaching is to set aside preconceptions and really pay attention to what children are doing. Maintains that music specialists who go into the early childhood room only at music time should seek other opportunities to observe students. (CFR)

Describes the creation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum in one child care center using input from teachers, children, parents, and others. Discusses the planning process that combined teacher-initiated activities with child-initiated ideas and questions to produce a unique, dynamic curriculum of age-appropriate and individually…

This resource booklet addresses adults' concerns about developing appropriate responses to "superhero play" among young children. In order for adults to successfully change patterns of superhero play, it is suggested that they first become familiar with superhero programs and understand the basis of their appeal. The issue discusses…

This activity booklet introduces young children to libraries and media centers and to beginning library skills by means of pictures to color, connect-the-dot pictures, cut-outs, puzzles, games, and space for drawings. Captions are provided on each page. The booklet is designed for use by the individual child and is recommended for a library story…

Presents reviews of the following mathematics software designed to teach young children counting, number recognition, visual discrimination, matching, addition, and subtraction skills; Stickybear Numbers, Learning with Leeper, Getting Ready to Read and Add, Counting Parade, Early Games for Young Children, Charlie Brown's 1,2,3's, Let's Go Fishing,…

Noting that children's questions are usually complex and thereby provide a natural learning context for inquiry-based early childhood education, this booklet focuses on using children's scientific questions as a foundation for planning and creating a stimulating learning environment. Following an introduction, the booklet provides suggestions for…

Proposes replacing the term child-centered with child-sensitive to indicate more accurately the major role of teachers in determining the curriculum and activities offered to young children. In contrast to the laissez-faire, child-indulgent approach of many child-centered programs, a child sensitive approach would encourage teachers to capitalize…

Reviews computer software that meets the interests and needs of young children and teaches powerful ideas. The evaluations are based on field tests and the following criteria: age appropriateness, child control, clear instructions, expanding complexity, independence, nonviolence, process orientation; real-world model, technical features, and…

Twenty-one papers from the Open Forum on Core Programs are included in this collection: (1) "The IFLA (International Federal of Library Associations) UAP (Universal Availability of Publications) Programme" (M. F. Plassard, IFLA Programme Officer); (2) "Progress Report on IFLA Core Programme for Universal Dataflow and…

Describes ways to involve young children in early childhood programs in environmental issues. Focuses on three approaches: the "love approach," which fosters children's appreciation for the natural world; the "know approach," which helps children become knowledgeable about the environment; and the "do approach," which…

The values, selection, and presentation of literature for young children are described in this pamphlet. The values discussed are educational importance and self-concept and interpersonal relationship development. The selection criteria include defining a good book, identifying types of literature which appeal to children, and noting the level,…

Reviews research on the developmental roots of nurturance in young children. Examines child characteristics (age, sex); characteristics of the nurtured object (infants and their behaviors); and aspects of the nurturing situation (adult involvement and encouragement). Implications for furture research and child care practices are suggested. (BB)

Highlights considerations in designing high-quality, developmentally appropriate indoor play environments for all children. Suggestions for arranging classroom space focus on arrangement and accessibility of play areas. Tips for selecting and arranging play materials relate to ensuring diversity of play materials, increasing and maintaining…