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Teaching Practices

Effective, nurturing, and responsive teaching practices and interactions are key for all learning in early childhood settings. They foster trust and emotional security; are communication and language rich; and promote critical thinking and problem-solving. They also support social, emotional, behavioral, and language development; provide supportive feedback for learning; and motivate continued effort. Teaching practices and interactions are responsive to and build on each child’s pattern of development and learning. They can be measured by the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®) and other adult-child interaction tools. These observations may then be used to support professional development. Teaching practices also include how schedules and routines are carried out, how settings are managed, and how children’s challenging behaviors are addressed.

The Magic of Music for Infants and Toddlers

Once children are born, music and singing have important impacts on their early development, supporting brain development and skills across all areas of multiple learning areas.

We’re Going on a Bug Hunt

Invite children to go on an adventure to find bugs on your outdoor area, backyard, or local playground. Ask children where they think they will find insects — always following their lead in the shared exploration.

It’s Make-believable

Make-believe play is an important part of a research-based curriculum and practices you use every day. The sky is the limit as children create play experiences to explore scenarios from their world and beyond!

1-2-3 Dance with Me

Did you know that experimenting with rhythm connects music, math, and culture? Model musical exploration, share in the joy, and follow children’s interests with types of music and ways to express themselves..

Nature Walk and Roll

Take a nature walk and roll! Children and adults might be walking or rolling around in a stroller, buggy, or wheelchair. All ways of moving are wonderful, and we encourage choosing a pathway that works for everyone.

Play the Head Start Way

Staff can use this information to plan and carry out open ended, joyful play activities with children enrolled in Head Start programs.

Creating a Caring Community

Creating caring communities involves warm, respectful relationships among children and adults in learning environments. Learn more with the videos, handouts, and learning activities in this in-service suite.