Mar 17, 2025 · The DAP framework is grounded both in the research on child development and learning and in knowledge about educational effectiveness and promotes young children’s …

NAEYC defines “developmentally appropriate practice” as methods that promote each child’s optimal development and learning through a strengths-based, play-based approach to joyful, …

Developmentally appropriate practice requires early childhood educators to seek out and gain knowledge and understanding using three core considerations: commonality, individuality, and …

This statement’s primary focus is on the decisions early childhood educators make that result in developmentally appropriate practice.

DAP with Preschoolers, Ages 3-5 Preschool children learn best when they have positive and caring relationships with adults and other children; when they receive carefully planned, …

For Educators The fourth edition of the developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) position statement and book reflect new research that underscores the importance of social, cultural, …

Developmentally appropriate practice is the foundation on which quality early learning is built. The fourth edition of this classic, influential text addresses developmentally appropriate practice …

This position statement, one of five foundational documents developed by NAEYC in collaboration with the early childhood profession to advance high-quality early learning for all young …

The following guidelines for DAP address decisions that early childhood professionals make in six key and interrelated areas of practice.

10 Effective DAP Teaching StrategiesAn effective teacher or family child care provider chooses a strategy to fit a particular situation. It’s important to consider what the children already know …