Using Developmentally Effective Approaches

Category 4: Using Developmentally Effective Approaches
Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs understand that teaching and learning with young children is a complex enterprise, and its details vary depending on children’s ages, characteristics, and the settings within which teaching, and learning occur. They understand and use positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for their work with young children and families. Candidates know, understand, and use a wide array of developmentally appropriate approaches, instructional strategies, and tools to connect with children and families and positively influence each child’s development and learning.
Key elements of Standard 4:
a) Understanding positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of their work with young children
b) Knowing and understanding effective strategies and tools for early education, including appropriate uses of technology
c) Using a broad repertoire of developmentally appropriate teaching /learning approaches
d) Reflecting on own practice to promote positive outcomes for each child
Directions: Develop a 2-3 page document (minimum 500 word per page).
1. Write an introduction paragraph describing how your teaching practices with infants and toddlers meet this Standard.
2. Then, write at least 1 to 2 paragraphs on how you facilitate each of the following in your daily teaching practice:
a) Understanding positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of their work with young children
b) Knowing and understanding effective strategies and tools for early education, including appropriate uses of technology
c) Using a broad repertoire of developmentally appropriate teaching /learning approaches
d) Reflecting on own practice to promote positive outcomes for each child
3. Include 1-3 Artifacts documenting your competency in this Category.
Each category must have at least 1-3 artifacts present which you feel shows your understanding of the standard Artifact can include (but are not limited to): • Interviews • Photos • Evaluations • Examples of children’s work • Lesson Plans
4. Reflective self-assessment addressing the category.
· Reflections should explain why the artifact was selected for each standard, and how the artifact demonstrates your proficiency in the area outlined by the standard.
· Reflections should help the evaluator understand how you have grown in your role as an educator within the standards area.
· Reflections should be approximately 2 pages each.
· Each reflection should include an overall introduction to the category, supporting topic paragraphs, and a conclusion.
· Your reflection is required to be supported with in-text citations and a reference page in APA formatting.

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