This text explains how to integrate developmentally appropriate practices into a curriculum and offers practical tips for working in the early childhood classroom. Developmentally appropriate practice continues to form the backbone for this revision of a leading introductory text on early childhood education. All aspects of helping young children ages 3-8 are covered in this comprehensive text that stresses the best practices put forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Voices from practicing early childhood caregivers, improved coverage on diversity, and parent involvement techniques are all included in this new edition. In addition, the text incorporates new technologies, emphasizing how the Internet can be used to better understand the development of and the issues concerning young children, and to enhance and inform one's teaching.