NAEYC offers many resources on play and developmentally appropriate practice for educators, families, and all those interested in children’s healthy development and learning.
For Teachers and Caregivers
The following resources give insight on what the research has to say about play and some activities you can immediately put to good use.
What Should You Know About Developmentally Appropriate Practice?
Engaged, responsive teaching and play are fundamental to developmentally appropriate practice. Read this Q&A for an introduction to the basics of DAP. To learn more, register for an online program about DAP and play.
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Full DAP resources »
Register for an online program on DAP and Play »
The Importance of Play, A Conversation with Dr. Alison Gopnik
A researcher describes the hard evidence that children learn through play.
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Got Standards? Don’t Give Up on Engaged Learning
Even in classrooms with standards and required curriculum, there is still a place for rich, integrated learning experiences that truly engage children.
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More for teachers and caregivers »
For Parents and Families
Families can use these resources at home to promote play and learning.
Playdough Power!
Homemade or out of the can, this preschool staple can provide hours of fun and learning at home.
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Family Fun and Fitness
Tips and ideas for active family time that will get the whole family off the couch and moving together.
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Try it Outdoors!
Inspiration to try new activities like making music and playing games outdoors.
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More for parents and families »
For Policymakers
The following resources help policymakers at every level understand the unique needs and effective teaching practices that include play for learning and for healthy development.
Key Messages of Developmentally Appropriate Practice
One of NAEYC’s key messages in Developmentally Appropriate Practice Position Statement is that play promotes key abilities that enable children to learn successfully.
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Full position statement »
Read NAEYC’s Positions on Math, Literacy, Assessment, Teacher Quality, and Other Critical Issues
NAEYC many position statements are written with the philosophy of developmentally appropriate practice in mind.
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Common Core: What does NAEYC think?
NAEYC has released a joint statement with the National Association of Early Childhood Specialist in State Departments of Education on the Common Core State Standard Initiative.
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