Reaching Standards and Beyond in Kindergarten

"This book clearly outlines how teachers can make standards the foundation of their practice without leaving behind what the best teachers know about creating challenging and ordered environments that respect the learning needs of young children. Through clear examples and informative vignettes, including how to meet the needs of children with special needs and those learning English, this books helps teachers find the resources to return joyful learning to this critical year of schooling." —Harriet A. Egertson, Educational Consultant "A great overview of a developmentally appropriate kindergarten classroom. This book gives me the support I need to know that I am teaching my students through practices based on research." —Darcy Sammelson, Kindergarten Teacher Austin School, Vermilion, SD Help kindergarten students meet national standards in developmentally appropriate ways! Standards provide an important benchmark for student learning, but meeting them doesn′t mean you have to take away fun and creativity. Reaching Standards and Beyond in Kindergarten offers research-based strategies and ideas for addressing content standards in ways that nurture children′s natural love of learning. The authors show how creative play activities can help children reach standards in literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts. They also offer suggestions for promoting healthy physical and social-emotional development. Covering the transition to kindergarten as well as the transition to first grade, this book: Presents authentic assessments for measuring student progress toward meeting standards Offers strategies and tips for working with English language learners and children with special needs Discusses how to develop relationships with caregivers and strengthen the critical home-school connection Includes sample templates, calendars, book lists, and more This resource provides novice teachers with field-tested strategies and gives veteran teachers fresh ideas to add to their existing instructional repertoire.