Early childhood education programs play an important role in teacher preparation, “serving as field sites where emerging professionals can develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions under the mentorship of experienced early childhood educators."

NAEYC promotes high-quality early learning for all children, birth through age 8, by connecting practice, policy, and research. We advance a diverse early childhood profession and support all who care for, educate, and work on behalf of young children.

Developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) calls for educators to engage in ongoing reflection that supports responsive and intentional interactions.

Learn how educators introduce science to the young children in their settings.

Children at a Maine early learning center extend their learning about birds to include building birdfeeders.