INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION, 6/E, provides a comprehensive overview of early childhood education that is solidly based on current research and theories. Grounded in constructivist theory but also covering other perspectives, the book focuses on developmentally appropriate practices for infants and toddlers, preschoolers, early elementary schoolchildren, and children with disabilities. The majority of the book examines curriculum and the fostering of creativity, as well as physical, cognitive, language, and social development--and every facet of early childhood education is examined and explained. This edition also has been extensively revised and includes new standards and accountability in the field of early childhood education, a new emphasis on working with children from diverse backgrounds, and discussions of the role of families and forms of parent communication. A strong emphasis on DAP (Developmentally Appropriate Practice) along with completely updated references and examples from practitioners make this book one of the most comprehensive resources available.