Using play as the method against which all others are compared, this book presents the strengths and weaknesses of different models of teaching, examines various methods of guiding young children's behavior, and shows how to create and maintain a positive learning environment. Finally, it discusses how to work as a team member in ECE settings.

Examines the meaning of curriculum, discusses curriculum integration, describes how to plan, create, and evaluate a curriculum, and examines how modern literacy, mathematics, social studies, science, and expressive arts curricula evolved into their present forms. Methods of assessing children's progress through the curriculum are integrated throughout.

Provides an overview of development, then describes principles and sequences of physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development at the infant, toddler, preschool, and primary levels. Individual differences and developmental norms are stressed throughout.

Using play as the method against which all others are compared, this book presents the strengths and weaknesses of different models of teaching, examines various methods of guiding young children's behavior, and shows how to create and maintain a positive learning environment. Finally, it discusses how to work as a team member in ECE settings.

In an accessible and meaningful way, Early Childhood Education examines foundational topics that encourage early childhood education students to think, reflect, and develop opinions, theories, and philosophies about their field. This interactive book invites the reader to develop a personal philosophy of early childhood education and an identity as an early educator, in order to build a sufficient foundation for continual growth as a teacher.

Divided into three sections that deal with the past, present, and future, Early Childhood Education asks the reader to think about important ideas underlying and encompassing today's early childhood education. First providing historical and philosophical perspectives of the field, authors Krogh and Slentz then look at careers in early education and what it's like to be a teacher or caregiver today, compare and contrast contemporary models of early childhood education, and examine cultural and individual differences that confront and challenge teachers. Finally, the book looks to the future of the field and discusses debates of current issues. The newly updated edition includes the most contemporary issues in the field since the first edition and integrates further discussion of diversity and children with special needs throughout the entire book.

Special Features:

• End of chapter questions invite readers to develop an ongoing philosophy of teaching and learning.
• "Extending your Learning" activities provide opportunities for further discussion and debate.
• Glossary and Internet Resources offer important tools for the early childhood education student.

In an accessible and meaningful way, Early Childhood Education examines foundational topics that encourage early childhood education students to think, reflect, and develop opinions, theories, and philosophies about their field. This interactive book invites the reader to develop a personal philosophy of early childhood education and an identity as an early educator, in order to build a sufficient foundation for continual growth as a teacher. Divided into three sections that deal with the past, present, and future, Early Childhood Education asks the reader to think about important ideas underlying and encompassing today's early childhood education. First providing historical and philosophical perspectives of the field, authors Krogh and Slentz then look at careers in early education and what it's like to be a teacher or caregiver today, compare and contrast contemporary models of early childhood education, and examine cultural and individual differences that confront and challenge teachers. Finally, the book looks to the future of the field and discusses debates of current issues. The newly updated edition includes the most contemporary issues in the field since the first edition and integrates further discussion of diversity and children with special needs throughout the entire book. Special Features: End of chapter questions invite readers to develop an ongoing philosophy of teaching and learning. "Extending your Learning" activities provide opportunities for further discussion and debate. Glossary and Internet Resources offer important tools for the early childhood education student.

Provides an overview of development, then describes principles and sequences of physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development at the infant, toddler, preschool, and primary levels. Individual differences and developmental norms are stressed throughout.