Suggested Reading

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Books to Add to Your Professional Library

It is crucial to understand the importance of lifelong learning in order to continually improve as early childhood professionals. Here, you will find a listing of excellent books that I recommend for your personal library.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice (Bredekamp/Copple)

You have undoubtedly seen this book cited in countless other early childhood publications. It is, more or less, the bible of quality early childhood practice. It is an easy-to-understand manual distinguishing between proper and improper teaching methods in an early childhood classroom. EVERY early childhood teacher should have this book!

Reflecting Children's Lives: A Handbook for Planning Child-Centered Curriculum (Curtis/Carter)

The authors present practical ideas in this thoughtful handbook which makes the complex task of planning a child-centered curriculum easier. Learn how to make theme plans, establish times for observation and play, set up schedules, space, play, and more. Each chapter contains an insightful and touching story by teachers, as well as charts, assessment tools, resource lists, and practice sheets. This is a truly valuable resource.

Developmental Profiles: Pre-birth through Twelve (Allen/Marotz)

This book uses a concise, bulleted format, with easy access to the characteristics of each of the domains of child development for every age from birth through middle childhood. It also suggests appropriate learning activities to support development, as well as development alerts and safety concerns related to each particular age group. This book is invaluable for conducting observations of young children.

Roots and Wings: Affirming Culture in Early Childhood Programs (York)

This book will open doors for beginners in cultural diversity education and will enrich the more experienced teachers. It is a wonderful tool for assisting early childhood educators to address the complex issues of cultural diversity and racial prejudice. I recommend this book to any teacher, caregiver, or parent who wishes to support young children's respect for themselves and others.

The Right Stuff for Children Birth to Eight: Selecting Play Materials to Support Development (Bronson)

Here is a book with suggestions for appropriate toys and materials for each age group. It is very helpful in wading through all the "stuff" out there in the stores... what's good and what's not!

Teaching by Heart: The Foxfire Interviews (Hatton)

Some of the most prominent educators of our time, including Vivian Paley, Maxine Greene, and Alfie Kohn reveal their personal stories and offer valuable insights. They share memorable learning experiences and discuss how they overcame obstacles. These are powerful stories that will inspire you!