Mr. and Mrs. Harken are looking for a developmentally appropriate early childhood program for their son Max
Describe for the Harkens what they should look for in terms of physical setting, caregiver–child ratio, teacher qualifications, and daily activities.
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: When looking for a developmentally appropriate early childhood program, parents should take note of the following:
• Physical setting. Indoor environment is clean, in good repair, and well-ventilated. Classroom space is divided into richly equipped activity areas, including make-believe play, blocks, science, math, games and puzzles, books, art, and music. Fenced outdoor play space is equipped with swings, climbing equipment, tricycles, and sandbox.
• Group size. In preschools and child-care centers, group size is no greater than 18 to 20 children with two teachers.
• Teacher–child ratio. In preschools and child-care centers, teacher is responsible for no more than 8 to 10 children. In family child-care homes, caregiver is responsible for no more than 6 children.
• Daily activities. Children select many of their own activities and learn through experiences relevant to their own lives, mainly in small groups or individually. Teachers facilitate children's involvement, accept individual differences, and adjust expectations to children's developing capacities.
• Interactions between adults and children. Teachers move among groups and individuals, asking questions, offering suggestions, and adding more complex ideas. Teachers use positive guidance techniques, such as modeling and encouraging expected behavior and redirecting children to more acceptable activities.
• Teacher qualifications. Teachers have college-level specialized preparation in early childhood development, early childhood education, or a related field.
• Relationships with parents. Parents are encouraged to observe and participate. Teachers talk frequently with parents about children's behavior and development.
• Licensing and accreditation. Preschool and child-care programs are licensed by the state.
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