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Professional Standards & Competencies Resource Library

The Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators outline the essential knowledge, skills, and practices that are foundational to high-quality early childhood education. These standards define what early childhood educators should know and be able to do in order to support the learning and development of young children from birth through age 8. They serve as a guiding framework for professional development, practice, and evaluation within the field of early childhood education.

Understanding and implementing these standards is crucial for educators as they help ensure the delivery of equitable, inclusive, and high-quality education that promotes the well-being and success of all children. By adhering to these standards, educators also contribute to the profession's commitment to continuous improvement and accountability.

Please note that while the collection of resources has been organized and tagged according to the Professional Standards and Competencies, only the most applicable competencies have been prioritized for searching and tagging purposes.

For NAEYC resources in the library, you can find policies related to reproducing, distributing, or otherwise using content here. For all other resources, please follow appropriate practices for using/citing sources.

Directions for Using the Professional Standards and Competencies Resource Library

Check out the resource library tutorial here!

  • The PS&Cs Resource Library allows you to peruse ALL of the many resources available (by default) or you can utilize the provided filter and narrow down your search to target specific resources.

    Check out the resource library tutorial for more info.

  • By using the filtering categories, you are able to narrow your search to particular professional standards, one or more of the 22 key competencies, various ECE topics, a variety of age ranges, specific types of resources such as articles or videos or even find resources available in languages other than English.

    The robust filters even allow you to choose multiple choices across categories or within the same category to further narrow your search!

  • Once you have opened the various filter categories provided in the filter tool, you will notice that “all” is highlighted and checked in each category by default. This means the filter tool will not filter out any of those options within that category. If you wish to narrow your search, you simply click on one or more of the other options within the various filtering categories. Clicking will check that option. Checked options will be utilized for your search!

    To remove an option, simply click it again to remove the check from the checkbox.

  • The search feature is similar to any other search engine on a website. It can be used for a specific key word or phrase. Although the search may be helpful and is provided, the more robust filter tool may ultimately be more helpful in focusing and narrowing your search for resources.

  • Naturally, broken links will occur. Sometimes the resource has been moved to a new web address and other times it has been temporarily or permanently removed. We welcome you to report any broken links you find here. We will do our best to replace the link when possible or remove the resource if it is no longer available.

    **As of Feb. 2025, certain webpages and resources, particularly from agencies/organizations/projects that receive federal funds, have been at least temporarily removed in order to comply with federal mandates related to the Trump Administration’s Executive Orders. We will continue to monitor these resource links and update them if and when new links are available.

Start Your Search--Resource Library

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Start Your Search--Resource Library *

Sort quickly through the hundreds of available resources by using the filter tool on the left to populate the specific resources you need!

Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Multilingual Learners, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Multilingual Learners, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh

What Works for Multilingual Learners: 7 High-Quality Preschool Practices

https://www.colorincolorado.org/article/what-works-multilingual-learners-7-high-quality-preschool-practices

This article outlines seven research-based practices for supporting young multilingual learners (MLLs) through play-based, child-led learning. By prioritizing two-way conversations, hands-on 3D materials, and home-language support, educators create an inclusive environment where children can connect new English vocabulary to their prior knowledge and cultural experiences.

Organization/Author: Karen Nemeth, Colorin’ Colorado!

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: 2025

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Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Curriculum, Topic: Content Knowledge: The Arts Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Curriculum, Topic: Content Knowledge: The Arts Kadisha Conteh

The Importance of Art to the Development of the Whole Child- Why Children Need to Experience Art

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-importance-of-art-to-the-development-of-the-whole-child

This article argues that art should be about the process, not a final "cute" product. By replacing directed crafts with open-ended materials, teachers help children develop critical thinking, self-expression, and physical skills without the pressure to follow adult instructions.

Organization/Author: Diane Kashin, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: October 2022

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Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh

Creating Boundaries in a “Yes” Environment

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/creating-boundaries-in-a-yes-environment

This article explores creating a "yes" environment by replacing restrictive rules with flexible, developmental boundaries that support safe risk-taking. By focusing on "reasonably safe" spaces and child "buy-in," educators can shift from constant correction to intentional facilitation, fostering a classroom culture of trust and autonomy.

Organization/Author: Teresa Parlan Gonsoski, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: Feb. 2023

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Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh

Nature’s Dozen

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/natures-dozen

This article outlines twelve practical steps for transitioning a traditional classroom into a nature-based program, emphasizing that nature should be a daily routine rather than a reward. By starting small, embracing inclement weather, and prioritizing child-led play, educators can reduce stress and foster essential skills like critical thinking and self-regulation.

Organization/Author: Peter Dargatz, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: March 2023

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Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum Kadisha Conteh

Toddlers as Investigators: Understanding Emergent Curriculum

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/toddlers-as-investigators
This article defines emergent curriculum as a responsive approach where teachers use "active listening" and observation to turn toddler curiosities into learning opportunities. By moving away from predetermined scripts and toward child-led inquiries—like pouring, dumping, or mixing—educators foster autonomy and partner with toddlers in their rapid developmental growth.

Organization/Author: Melissa Pinkham, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: May 2023

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Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Article, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh

The Ordinary Magic of Resilience

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-ordinary-magic-of-resilience
This article explores how fairy tales and imaginative play serve as powerful tools for building "ordinary magic"—the resilience children need to overcome toxic stress and adversity. By integrating classic stories into classroom centers, educators can foster the four key protective factors of resilience: strong relationships, initiative, executive function, and cultural context.

Organization/Author: Stephanie Goloway, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: May 2023

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Article, Standard 6, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Ethical and Professional Guidelines Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Article, Standard 6, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Ethical and Professional Guidelines Kadisha Conteh

Everyone Needs Attention

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/everyone-needs-attention
This article reframes "attention-seeking" behavior as a fundamental human need for relationship and secure attachment. It urges educators to replace punitive responses with compassionate connection, recognizing that children's emotional health and self-regulation flourish through validation rather than isolation.

Organization/Author: Tamar Jacobson, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: June 2023

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Where the Magic Happens: Taking Your Play-Based Program Outdoors

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/where-the-magic-happens
This article emphasizes the physical, mental, and developmental benefits of transitioning play-based learning to the outdoors, regardless of the setting or weather. It provides a practical framework for educators to shift their mindset from "supervisors" to "facilitators" by using proper gear, flexible scheduling, and intentional activity planning.

Organization/Author: Christina Davis, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: June 2023

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Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Topic: Play, Topic: Curriculum, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Topic: Play, Topic: Curriculum, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh

Following Children's Lead with the Project Approach Inspired Learning for Children and Adults

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/following-childrens-lead
This article explores how the Project Approach fosters in-depth, child-led learning through collaborative investigations like the "Rocks Project" in Kansas City. By observing children's natural curiosities and engaging community experts, educators can co-construct meaningful, standards-based curriculum that enhances intellectual development and family engagement.

Organization/Author: Karrie Snider, Della Judie, Carol Bolz, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: August 2023

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Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Curriculum Kadisha Conteh Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Curriculum Kadisha Conteh

Memory: The Heart of all Learning-The Importance of Enactive and Iconic Memory for Young Children

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/memory-the-heart-of-all-learning
Grounded in Jerome Bruner’s theories, this piece explores how young children use their bodies and mental images to store and retrieve information. The author cautions educators against "jumpstarting" formal schooling, emphasizing that mastery of physical and spatial memory is a prerequisite for successful linguistic and logical development.

Organization/Author: Francis Wardle, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: August 2023

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Standard 4, Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Content Knowledge: Science, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Standard 5, Resource Type: Article, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Content Knowledge: Science, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy Kadisha Conteh

Benefits of Clay Play-Understanding the Exploration Stage of Children

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/benefits-of-clay-play
This article highlights the importance of the "exploration stage" in art, urging educators to prioritize sensory discovery over final products. By introducing clay as a responsive, earthy medium, Sally Haughey illustrates how simple actions—like pounding, piling, and rolling—build fine motor strength, cognitive problem-solving, and a deep, tactile connection to the natural world.

Organization/Author: Sally Haughey, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: September 2023

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Standard 4, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Communicating Effectively with Children-Rethinking Transitions and Circle Times

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/communicating-effectively-with-children
Beth Trammell offers evidence-based strategies to rethink transition periods, focusing on reducing wait times and using concrete language that matches a child's cognitive abilities. The article outlines six essential steps for delivering instructions that increase compliance and foster a sense of security within the classroom.

Organization/Author: Beth Trammell, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: October 2023

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Brain Development, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Brain Development, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Strengthening Executive Function Builds Social-Emotional Competence in Young Learners

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/strengthening-executive-function-builds-social-emotional-competence-in-young-learners
Renae Ouillette addresses the gap between neuroscience and current educational practices, calling for a shift away from standardized testing toward EF-building strategies. The article provides actionable classroom techniques, such as establishing predictable routines, prioritizing open-ended play, and modeling conflict resolution to improve long-term learning trajectories

Organization/Author: Renae Ouillette, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: July 2024

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Block Building for Overstimulated Children

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/block-building-for-overstimulated-children
This article explores how traditional block play serves as a powerful antidote to the overstimulation caused by modern technology. Veteran educator Todd Erickson demonstrates how hands-on materials like unit and hollow blocks foster essential developmental skills including deep focus, resilience in problem-solving, and social perspective-taking.

Organization/Author: Todd Erickson, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: January 2025

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Content Knowledge: Mathematics, Topic: Content Knowledge: Science, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Content Knowledge: Mathematics, Topic: Content Knowledge: Science, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Outdoor Play for Toddlers Through a Teacher's Eyes: What I've Learned From Two Decades Teaching Toddlers

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/outdoor-play-for-toddlers
This insightful piece offers a teacher's perspective on the power of nature-based learning for toddlers. It outlines how intentional environments and flexible routines allow children to explore their curiosity, develop sensory awareness, and find emotional regulation through the great outdoors.

Organization/Author: Sara Ruiz, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: February 2025

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Standard 5, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

The Teacher's Role in the Emergent Curriculum

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-teachers-role-in-the-emergent-curriculum
This article describes the teacher's role in an emergent curriculum as a dynamic mix of scholar, designer, project manager, storyteller, and evaluator. Instead of just following a script, teachers use their knowledge of child development to design meaningful spaces, document students' progress, and adjust the environment based on children's changing interests. This approach ensures that learning is a collaborative journey where the teacher guides and deepens the child's natural exploration of the world

Organization/Author: Shira B. Kulok, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: April 2025

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Play, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

The Importance of Dramatic Play for Young Children-How dramatic play fosters social/emotional development

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-importance-of-dramatic-play-for-young-children
This article highlights dramatic play as a vital tool for helping children process emotions, build empathy, and develop self-regulation through role-playing. It explains how acting out real-life scenarios gives children a sense of control and strengthens their social-emotional skills.

Organization/Author: Kelly Hantak, Sarah Grissom, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: May 2025

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Standard 5, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy, Topic: Content Knowledge: Mathematics, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh Standard 5, Topic: Content Knowledge: Language and Literacy, Topic: Content Knowledge: Mathematics, Topic: Curriculum, Resource Type: Article Kadisha Conteh

Incorporating Literacy and Math Skills in the Emergent Curriculum- A director's thoughts on how to cultivate joyful, child-led learning

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/incorporating-literacy-and-math-skills-in-the-emergent-curriculum
This article explores the emergent curriculum approach, where educators build lessons around children's natural curiosities and real-world observations rather than pre-set workbooks. It demonstrates how teachers can integrate core math and literacy skills into student-led inquiries—such as building skyscrapers or observing winter ducks—to create authentic, lasting learning experiences.

Organization/Author: Meghan Murray, Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: May 2025

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Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Standard 2, Topic: Family Diversity, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Partnership-building with Families Kadisha Conteh Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Standard 2, Topic: Family Diversity, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Partnership-building with Families Kadisha Conteh

Message in a Backpack™. Strategies Families Can Use for Dealing with Stress

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/eyc/summer2025/message-in-a-backpack

This "Message in a Backpack™" article provides practical guidance for families on managing stress to support both adult well-being and child development.

Organization/Author: Ingrid Anderson, Educating Young Children, NAEYC

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: Summer 2025

Topic of issue of EYC: Educator Well-Being: Supports Across the Early Childhood Ecosystem

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Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Standard 2, Standard 4, Standard 6, Topic: Developmental Theories, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Community Partnerships and Resources, Topic: Family Diversity, Topic: Reflective Practices Kadisha Conteh Resource Type: Article, Standard 1, Standard 2, Standard 4, Standard 6, Topic: Developmental Theories, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Community Partnerships and Resources, Topic: Family Diversity, Topic: Reflective Practices Kadisha Conteh

Innovations in Higher Education. Decolonization Is Not a Buzz Word: (Re)Envisioning Early Childhood Teacher Education Through Curriculum Design

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/summer2024/decolonization-in-ece

In this article, the author explores the redesign of Erikson Institute’s teacher licensure program to challenge white-dominant narratives and address systemic inequities in early childhood education. It details how decolonizing pedagogies, such as land education and reflective identity assignments, are used to prepare educators to foster inclusive, just learning environments.

Organization/Author: Meghan L. Green, Young Children, NAEYC 

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: Summer 2024

Topic of issue of YC: Self-Regulation and Executive Function: Responsive and Informed Practices for Early Childhood

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Additional Resources

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The Professional Standards & Competencies for Early Childhood Educators

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