A top priority for early childhood educators is to teach children to read. Using developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) while incorporating foundational concepts into lessons help teachers differentiate instruction, engage students in the learning process, and increase achievement of all children. While students are treated as unique individuals, all practices should be appropriate to the child’s age and developmental stage and build on previously taught concepts. The purpose of this article is to explore teachers’ experiences as they implement DAP into their literacy instruction. It also examines obstacles they face as they implement their practices.
Read more: The Whole Child