What does "developmentally appropriate practice" mean?

Developmentally appropriate practice refers to teaching strategies and educational approaches that are tailored to align with the varying psychological, social, and physical stages of development of children. This approach recognizes that children learn best when their education is suited to their individual developmental levels, interests, and abilities.

This practice emphasizes that educators must have a deep understanding of child development to create supportive learning environments that foster growth and learning. It involves considering not just the general milestones that children typically achieve at certain ages, but also the cultural, social, and personal contexts that influence each child’s learning journey.

By focusing on developmentally appropriate practices, educators can design activities and lesson plans that engage children in meaningful and relevant ways, ultimately enhancing their overall educational experience and promoting positive outcomes.