Developmentally appropriate practice
What is DAP? Quiz
Please answer the following questions.
1. What does the acronym DAP in the field of early childhood education stand for? In one sentence, explain what the phrase means to you when you spell it out. (4 points)
“DAP” - Developmentally appropriate practice
DAP refers to a framework designed to encourage young children’s optimal learning and development.
Ensures that children’s goals and experiences are suited to their learning and development and challenging enough to promote their progress and interest.
Best practice is based on knowledge and not on assumptions of how children learn and develop.
DAP is the best practice to promote excellence in early childhood education.
2. What three areas of knowledge must all early childhood professionals consider in relation to DAP? (These are outlined under the first DAP core: Knowledge to consider in making decisions.) (6 points= 2 points each)
Below three areas of knowledge that must be considered by all early childhood professionals should consider in relation to DAP:
a. Knowing about child development and learning.
Knowing what is typical at each age and stage of early development is crucial. This knowledge, based on research, helps us decide which experiences are best for children’s learning and development.
b. Knowing what is individually appropriate.
What we learn about specific children helps us teach and care for each child as an individual. By continually observing children’s play and interaction with the physical environment and others, we learn about each child’s interests, abilities, and developmental progress.
c. Knowing what is culturally important.
We must make an effort to get to know the children’s families and learn about the values, expectations, and factors that shape their lives at home and in their communities. This background information helps us provide meaningful, relevant, and respectful learning experiences for each child and family.
3. Describe
Please answer the following questions.
1. What does the acronym DAP in the field of early childhood education stand for? In one sentence, explain what the phrase means to you when you spell it out. (4 points)
“DAP” - Developmentally appropriate practice
DAP refers to a framework designed to encourage young children’s optimal learning and development.
Ensures that children’s goals and experiences are suited to their learning and development and challenging enough to promote their progress and interest.
Best practice is based on knowledge and not on assumptions of how children learn and develop.
DAP is the best practice to promote excellence in early childhood education.
2. What three areas of knowledge must all early childhood professionals consider in relation to DAP? (These are outlined under the first DAP core: Knowledge to consider in making decisions.) (6 points= 2 points each)
Below three areas of knowledge that must be considered by all early childhood professionals should consider in relation to DAP:
a. Knowing about child development and learning.
Knowing what is typical at each age and stage of early development is crucial. This knowledge, based on research, helps us decide which experiences are best for children’s learning and development.
b. Knowing what is individually appropriate.
What we learn about specific children helps us teach and care for each child as an individual. By continually observing children’s play and interaction with the physical environment and others, we learn about each child’s interests, abilities, and developmental progress.
c. Knowing what is culturally important.
We must make an effort to get to know the children’s families and learn about the values, expectations, and factors that shape their lives at home and in their communities. This background information helps us provide meaningful, relevant, and respectful learning experiences for each child and family.
3. Describe