Early Childhood

Curriculum Chapter 2
Cost: $37.95. The entire document (including the
executive summary) may be downloaded at http://www.
nap.edu/catalog/9745.html
From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of Early
Childhood Development
Shonkoff, J.P. and Phillips, D.A., eds. (2000).
Washington, DC: National Academy Press
Significant advances in neuroscience and the behavioral
and social sciences have shed new light on early
development and what kids need in order to thrive. This
report summarizes scientific and research findings from
the past 40 years, debunking popular myths, offering
new insights and advocating increased commitments
to early care and education. This is a reference and
resource for both institutions and individuals.
Available online at http://www.nap.edu/
books/0309069882/html/
Observing Young Children: Learning To Look, Looking
To Learn
Colker, L.J. (1995). Washington, DC: Teaching
Strategies, Inc.
A 30-minute videotape and accompanying guide help
new and experienced early childhood educators observe
and learn about children as a way to individualize
programs and adjust environments. Observation
techniques are described and guided practice
opportunities are provided. This resource is appropriate
for self-instruction or use with a group.
The Power of Observation
Jablon, J.R.; Dombro, A.L. and Dichtelmiller, M.L.
(1999). Washington, DC: Teaching Strategies, Inc.
This book is a tool for those who educate young children,
or for faculty members who are preparing students to
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do the same, in that it reflects on the vital connections
between observation and effective teaching. The authors
share their personal experiences and the experiences of
others to illustrate how observation is a powerful and
effective method for teaching better, learning more about
children and building better relationships. Strategies for
various settings (e.g., family child care, preschool) are
highlighted, including how to make observation fit into
your day, getting started, making observation a habit,
using what you learn from observation and overcoming
observation barriers.
Talking and Play: Language is The Key
Cole, K. (1999). Seattle, WA: Washington Research
Institute
Pre-service and in-service audiences can discover
strategies for increasing language and building
language/literacy skills with children (0-4) through these
materials. The set, which is available in English, Spanish
and Korean, includes two 20-minute videos (Talking
and Play and Talking and Books). An accompanying
manual includes handouts, agendas and other resources
to support effective use of the videos, along with
suggestions for enhancing cultural sensitivity, using
interpreters/translators and coaching others in skill
development.
Young Investigators: The Project Approach in The Early
Years
Helm, J.H. and Katz, L. (2001). Washington, DC:
NAEYC
This book illustrates how all children, even those who are
considered to be at risk, may benefit from the exploratory
and child-initiated nature of project investigations in
order to achieve mastery of basic literacy skills. It’s a
book with anecdotes, illustrations and supports for
helping early childhood personnel take this active
approach to supporting learning and development.