Developmentally Appropriate Practice

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Introduction Emergent literacy development is most vital from the time of birth till around five years of age (Elliott & Olliff, 2008). National Association for the Education of Young Children (2009) states, “A prime difference in children’s early experience is in their exposure to language, which is fundamental in literacy development and indeed in all areas of thinking and learning” (p. 2). This increases the need for educators to use developmentally appropriate practices when teaching young children, language and literacy skills (Elliott & Olliff, 2008). “Developmentally appropriate practice requires both meeting children where they are – which means that teachers must get to know them well – and enabling them to reach goals that are…show more content…
The article discusses teachers forming a partnership with the families through communication in a monthly calendar and newsletter, sending home a bracelet with an informational story, and holding literacy events throughout the year (Elliott & Olliff, 2008). There should be two-way communication between families and teachers about the progress and goals for language and literacy development (NAEYC, 2009). By having literacy events throughout the year, it follows developmentally appropriate practice by providing opprotunities for families to participate in the goals for their child (NAEYC, 2009). Teachers should also inform the children’s family of their emergent literacy skills, and provide activities for the family to do at home to advance the child’s knowledge. (Elliott & Olliff,…show more content…
Activities should be modified based on the assessment and observation of students (Elliott & Olliff, 2008). The fourth guideline in NAEYC’s position statement of developmentally appropriate practice (2009) states, “assessment of children’s development and learning is essential for teachers and programs in order to plan, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of the classroom experiences they provide” (p. 22). When addressing language and literacy in the classroom, educators must continually observe and monitor development in a strategic and purposeful way (NAEYC, 2009). Children develop understanding of the forms and function of written language through early writing experiences (TEA, 2008). These examples of written language as well as letter knowledge, phonological awareness, and reading domains should be documented and used for the purpose of sharing with family members, and for input towards future assignments (Elliott & Olliff,

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