EARLY EDUCATION CURRICULUM: A CHILD'S CONNECTION TO THE WORLD focuses on the role of observation and assessment in early childhood programming, the process of planning and implementing a curriculum, setting up an inclusive child-centered environment, and the uses of evaluation and documentation for continuous program improvement. Updated with current research and standards, the text continues to present new material on brain research that underlies teaching ideas as well as information on reflective practice, intentional teaching, and using the environment as a teaching tool. The seventh edition includes more material on diversity and diversity strategies, activity plans for different age groups, and more floor plans. New case studies provide examples of how activities planned align with specific standards, and allow students to apply knowledge gained to real-life situations. The book retains its strong applied focus on the how-to's of teaching, with many hands-on teaching tips.