This collection of essays argues that it matters that children gain, through teacher guidance, the social-emotional skills they need to succeed in and participate civilly in modern life. Part One establishes historical roots for the type of education that prepares children for this participation. Part Two makes the case that three best practices in early childhood education offer the approach to education for democracy that society needs. Part Three provides anecdotes and case studies to illustrate how guidance fosters the development of the five democratic life skills. 

Learn more about the book. 

Bestseller! A teacher interacts with the children all day long. It’s how the warm and responsive relationships in which young children learn best are built. But interactions in which teachers intentionally promote learning can be few and far between. A “Powerful Interaction” may last only a few minutes, but in that time the teacher tunes out any distractions, tunes into the child, and then presents a learning experience tailored to that child at that moment.

• In step one of a Powerful Interaction, Be Present, you pause to tune in to how you are feeling, and consider how you might need to adjust to create a “just-right” fit with a child.
• In step two, Connect, you let that child know that you see him; are interested in what he is doing, saying, and thinking; and want to spend time with him. 
• In step three, Extend Learning, you make use of your strong connection with the child to stretch his knowledge, skills, thinking, or language and vocabulary just a bit.

This reflective guide contains everything you need to understand what Powerful Interactions are, how to make them happen, and why they are so important in increasing children’s learning and your effectiveness as a teacher. Whether you work in a child care center or home, Early Head Start or Head Start program, preschool or early primary classroom, you make a difference in the lives of children and families—and Powerful Interactions can make that difference even bigger.

Learn more about the book. 

The cluster articles in this issue of Young Children focus on "Emotional Intelligence: A 21st Century Skill for Children and Adults" and are based on presentations given at NAEYC's National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development in June 2010. Authors cover topics such as teachers' interactions with children, social neuroscience, babies' self-regulation, the effects of academic curriculum on young boys, and tips for effectively coaching adults. Additional articles discuss supporting breastfeeding and play advocacy.  

To subscribe to Young Children, visit www.naeyc.org/yc/subscribe.

In this Spanish translation of "A Place of Our Own: Behavior and Emotions", host Debi Gutierrez leads engaging discussions on children's behavior and emotions with parents, caregivers, and child care experts. Topics include conflict resolution, tantrums, separation anxiety, sharing, and more. This DVD also includes 17 fun activities to do at home with your children. 180 min. From KCET.