ABSTRACT
Developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) is divided into three subgroups: (1) what we know about typical development; (2) each child’s specific interests, needs, and capacities; and (3) the cultural and social resources children bring from home. Within this chapter, steps for how to advocate for DAP within early childhood classrooms are discussed in detail. Having appropriate behavioral expectations, a strong background knowledge on developmental theorists such as Jean Piaget, understanding childhood milestones developed from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and a strong urgency to support DAP are all strategies suggested on how to advocate for DAP in early childhood education classrooms.
