Understand the connection between how kids grow and how they learn After 35 years as an education consultant, Rae Pica knows the importance of understanding the natural course of child development. In this collection, she keeps kids front and center as she provides thought-provoking commentary and actionable insights on topics such as the Common Core, the self-esteem movement, and standardized testing. Sure to inspire discussion, this pocket-size powerhouse of educational philosophy includes 29 short essays on topics critical to best practice in child development and education Opinions of experts supported by research and anecdotal evidence Real-life stories shared by teachers and parents References to related articles and interviews with experts

Understand the connection between how kids grow and how they learn After 35 years as an education consultant, Rae Pica knows the importance of understanding the natural course of child development. In this collection, she keeps kids front and center as she provides thought-provoking commentary and actionable insights on topics such as the Common Core, the self-esteem movement, and standardized testing. Sure to inspire discussion, this pocket-size powerhouse of educational philosophy includes 29 short essays on topics critical to best practice in child development and education Opinions of experts supported by research and anecdotal evidence Real-life stories shared by teachers and parents References to related articles and interviews with experts

Strengthen the connection between child development and learning We often teach our children in ways contrary to what we know about their development. What if our learning environments honored children’s natural inclinations and used them to enrich their lives? To help students experience joy and discovery, while also preparing them for future schooling, we need to understand the connection between how they develop and how they learn. Pica brings decades of experience in education to advocate for this change. Written as a follow-up to the bestselling What If Everybody Understood Child Development?, this book includes: 31 easy-to-read chapters on topics including disruptive behavior, creativity, self-regulation, screen time, and mental health Suggested next steps and resources in every chapter Real-life examples from the author′s and others’ experiences Evidence from brain science research Easy-to-read format perfect for PLCs, book studies, and parents The straight talk in this book inspires readers to generate change so that children can have the lives and education they deserve.

Discover why playing is school readiness with this updated guide. Timely research and new stories highlight how play is vital to the social, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development of children. Learn the seven meaningful experiences we should provide children with every day and why they are so important.

Written for use in Early Childhood Development courses, or courses in Cultural Diversity. This successful text is the first of its kind to take a multicultural approach/focus to child development. Using a hands-on approach, it presents both typical and atypical development while addressing all current and important topics and issues. The book is arranged within an ages/stages format from birth through age eight. The author continues to provide many practical multicultural/multiethnic cases and examples to implement research findings for working with children. This text is appropriate for development courses in early childhood programs.* NEW-Provides an observation/assessment feature. * NEW-Expands information on Vygotsky. * NEW-Updates relevant information on brain research. * NEW-Includes a companion website-So students can access the most recent information/ research in the field and be informed of any revisions to the text. * Focuses on multicultural applications-For early childhood educators. * Discusses key ideas in language development-Including second language learning and the acquisition of non-English languages. * Covers the unique play styles of children from other cultur

In Child Development: Myths and Misunderstandings 2e, Jean Mercer uses intriguing vignettes and questions about children and families to guide readers in thinking critically about 59 common beliefs.

Playtime is focused, purposeful, and full of learning. As they play, children master motor development, learn language and social skills, think creatively, and make cognitive leaps. This (un)curriculum is all about fostering children's play, trusting children as capable and engaged learners, and leaving behind boxed curriculums and prescribed activities. Filled with information on the guiding principles that make up an (un)curriculum, learning experience ideas, and suggestions for building strong emotional and engaging physical environments, Let Them Play provides support to those who believe in the learning power of play. Jeff A. Johnson spent twenty-five years as a child care provider in center- and home-based programs. He now works full time as an author, keynote speaker, podcaster, toymaker, and early learning advocate. He is the author or coauthor of six other Redleaf Press books. Denita Dinger has been a child care provider for more than fifteen years and operates a family child care program. For the last five years, she has been a frequent keynote speaker at early childhood conferences, focusing on the topics of hands-on learning and learning through play.