Find inspiration to intentionally develop and implement meaningful, developmentally appropriate observation and assessment practices to build responsive, joyful classrooms. The debate surrounding testing and accountability in early childhood education continues, but one thing is universally agreed upon: effective observation and assessment of young children's learning are critical to supporting their development. Educators balance what they know about child development with observation and assessment approaches that both inform and improve the curriculum. This foundational resource for all educators of children from birth through third grade explores: ul li ..

Emphasize the importance of play and learning from infancy through the primary grades Discover ways to provide a strong curricular approach for young children's learning while endorsing a playful pedagogy. The articles in this collection emphasize using play to promote children's skills in problem solving, decision making, and self-regulation; engaging diverse learners in play activities; and partnering with families to further children's playful learning. Specific topics include ways educators can: ul li Support infants' and toddlers' active explorations with sensory activities and unique materials li li Provide opportunities for children to engage in act ..

Empowering students to be active thinkers and learners Primary students enter the classroom as capable thinkers with unique experiences, skills, and ideas about the world. Using this new collection of articles, educators can build on that preexisting knowledge to take teaching and learning to the next level. This valuable resource will help you: ul li Create environments that boost learning and build social relationships among students li li Engage young learners in interpreting complex literature and thinking deeply and meaningfully about math and science li li Support culturally and linguistically diverse children li li Foster strong ties with f ..