A high-quality, research-based curriculum promotes measurable progress toward children’s development. The content and learning outcomes of the curriculum align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) and state early care and education standards. It provides guidance on what (content) and how (learning experiences and teaching practices) to teach. Content is drawn from current child development science, the interests and ideas of the children, family input, and the values of the community. A curriculum also provides ways to create nurturing and responsive practices, interactions, and environments that foster trust and emotional security. It helps families to actively engage in their child’s education. Staff use what they know about each child's strengths and needs and each family's goals to plan their use of the curriculum.
Learn more about a culturally responsive approach to implementing a curriculum and its key components. Find ways to partner with families to provide children with culturally responsive learning experiences.
In this 15-minute In-service Suite, learn how education staff can implement a curriculum responsive to individual children's interests.
This 15-minute In-service Suite describes how education staff can implement a curriculum that is responsive to children's development and learning.
Learn about emergent writing and the writing process. Discover ways to support children's emergent writing skills.
This suite highlights the key components of make-believe play. It describes what play looks like for children ages birth to 5 and provides practical ways to support make-believe play for all children.
Learn how music benefits children’s cognitive and social development. Hear strategies for enhancing this development through music.
Play is an important part of learning across the early childhood years. In this webinar, learn how play builds critical cognitive and behavioral skills across the birth to age 5 years. Find out what play looks like for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Find out how music can support infants’ and toddlers’ learning in all domains. Learn how adults can adapt songs to fit children’s age and development.
Filmed in classrooms and home-based settings, the video demonstrates activities that allow children to use their imaginations and experience creative adventures.
Watch this short video to explore basic principles of child development. This information can help staff as they support and individualize care for infants and very young children.