Take the case of
language and literacy development. Children are learning the building blocks of
language from their very earliest days. Parents’ and caregivers’ talk with
infants helps to stimulate language comprehension before children begin
speaking their first words. The oral language and vocabulary young children
learn through interactions with parents and caregivers can set the stage for
future academic success. By the age of two a link exists between vocabulary size
and reading comprehension, which lasts through fifth grade. Research also shows
that young children who develop strong oral language skills are more likely to
later develop strong reading skills. Oral language skills can be improved by
engaging in authentic conversations (instead of “repeat after me” or one-word
answers) with adults and other children. One of the best methods for building
language and literacy skills is through interactive storybook reading in which
the book stimulates conversations between children and caregivers. Engaging
young children in extended discourse about a story by asking open-ended
questions is an effective method for building literacy and language.
With mathematics,
researchers are also uncovering important information about young children’s
capacities and the benefits of exposing them to developmentally informed
teaching. Early knowledge of math strongly predicts later success in the
subject; skills in math are also closely entwined with language ability. If
guided and provided with opportunities to learn and explore, young children can
gain an understanding of mathematics that is broader and more sophisticated
than counting and recognizing simple shapes. For example, among the
mathematical abilities young children need to develop is the ability to
discriminate between large and small sets, known as subitizing. Research is
pointing to subitizing capabilities as necessary for forming a foundation for
eventually understanding number words, the number word sequence, and the
development of exact and extended number concepts and skills. Other more
complex math skills include the use of mathematical language, which can be
enhanced through discussions about how to solve narrative story problems.
The development of social
and emotional skills, such as the ability to work collaboratively, learn
from peers, and manage emotions and behavior, are critical for children’s
long-term success. A secure
parent-child attachment sets the foundation for the healthy development of
these skills. They can also be encouraged by knowledgeable educators who set
developmentally appropriate expectations, provide predictable routines, and
guide children in developing skills of self-management.
Physical
development and health are also critical for young children to thrive. Proper
nutrition, a physically safe environment, and opportunities for physical
activity are all linked to improved academic performance throughout a child’s
life. Care and education settings can encourage healthy physical development in
children by promoting healthy eating, offering opportunities for physical activity,
and providing developmental screenings and connecting families to follow-up
care and services.
Cognitive
development can be hindered by exposure to chronic
stress and adversity
that arise from sources such as poverty, family conflict, parental depression,
abuse, and neglect. Two-generation
interventions can be effective in reducing the levels of stress faced by
children by providing resources, such as job placement services, to parents
while also caring for children in the family. Chronic
stress and adversity
can negatively affect fundamental cognitive skills, decrease self-regulation,
and imperil mental and physical health. Early care and education professionals
must be trained to recognize the effects of chronic
stress and assist children in developing the skills necessary for coping
with adverse experiences, such as persistence and emotional awareness.