Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education (birth-age 8) is at the top of the national agenda, yet many children do not have access to the educational settings that they need.

For this assignment, write 3-5 pages about what constitutes a high quality early childhood program or policy by evaluating a current policy or policy initiative.

In your paper, address the following:

1. Describe the characteristics of high quality early childhood programs.

2. Discuss and give examples of at least three benefits of early childhood education. Use scholarly research findings to support your position.

3. Apply psychological theories to a policy or policy initiative relating to early childhood education, such as No Child Left Behind (NCLB), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Early Intervention, Head Start, or another program of your choosing. Include details about how the program is implemented and what population it aims to serve.

4. Explain how early childhood education and policy affect the physical, social, and cognitive aspects of child development. Use scholarly research findings to support your position.