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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!

Resource Type: Position Statement, Topic: Advocacy, Topic: Assessment Partnerships, Topic: Partnership-building with Families, Topic: Community Partnerships and Resources, Topic: Ethical and Professional Guidelines, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Standard 1, Standard 2, Standard 3, Standard 4, Standard 5, Standard 6 Kadisha Conteh Resource Type: Position Statement, Topic: Advocacy, Topic: Assessment Partnerships, Topic: Partnership-building with Families, Topic: Community Partnerships and Resources, Topic: Ethical and Professional Guidelines, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Standard 1, Standard 2, Standard 3, Standard 4, Standard 5, Standard 6 Kadisha Conteh

Code of Ethics for Early Childhood Educators Position Statement (full document & related resources)

Code of Ethics for Early Childhood Educators | NAEYC

Along with core knowledge, skills, values, and dispositions, early childhood educators who work in homes, centers, and schools have professional, ethical responsibilities. The “Code of Ethics for Early Childhood Educators” outlines the essential ethical responsibilities for the early childhood education profession. It speaks to a set of professional ethics—the moral responsibilities that go beyond personal beliefs—that guide ECE workplace decision making and behavior. This link access the full position statement along with other related code of ethics resources and supplements. (Available in English, Spanish, and Chinese)

Organization/Author: NAEYC

Type of Resource: Position Statement

Publication Date: 2025

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Multilingual Learners, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Video Collection Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Multilingual Learners, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Resource Type: Video Collection Kadisha Conteh

New to Teaching ELLs?

https://go.colorincolorado.org/new-teaching-ells

A comprehensive set of videos and resources that helps students who are new to teaching multilingual learners. Topics include building relationships with students, creating a welcoming classroom, what you need to know about your students, tips from veteran teachers, building an ELL network, and learning from special populations of students.

Organization/Author: Bernadette Pilar Zermeño, Colorin colorado!

Type of Resource: Videos

Publication Date: 2025

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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 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, 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 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 1, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh

Pre-K Spaces

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/literature/pre-k-spaces
Pre-K Spaces is a room design handbook for preschool environments. This step-by-step guide walks you through the six easy steps to create the best layout and design for a preschool classroom. 28 page booklet

Organization/Author: Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Report

Publication Date: unknown

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh

Infant and Toddler Spaces

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/literature/infant-toddler-spaces
 Design your own infant and toddler room with these guidelines for developmentally appropriate spaces.

Organization/Author: Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Report

Publication Date: unknown

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Resource Type: Report, Topic: Play, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice Kadisha Conteh

The Stuff of Childhood

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/literature/universal-learning-spaces
 How do you choose play equipment that supports your developmental goals for children? What makes good playthings? These time-tested guidelines can help you select appropriate equipment for young children. This is a 24 page booklet.

Organization/Author: Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Report

Publication Date: unknown

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Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Universal Design for Learning, Resource Type: Report Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Universal Design for Learning, Resource Type: Report Kadisha Conteh

Universal Learning Spaces-Designing high-quality neuroinclusive learning environments in early education centers

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/literature/universal-learning-spaces
 A guide to create learning spaces to support all children.

Organization/Author: Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Report

Publication Date: unknown

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Resource Type: Video, Standard 4, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh Resource Type: Video, Standard 4, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh

Creating a Flexible Learning Environment-A Community Playthings Case Study: CRT's Heritage Child Development Center, Hartford, CT

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/videos/case-study-crt-heritage
This resource explores how the Heritage Child Development Center utilizes modular "Roomscapes" furniture to create adaptable environments for infants and toddlers. It demonstrates practical strategies for balancing rapid developmental needs with strict licensing requirements for visibility and furniture stability, offering a model for maintaining a dynamic yet safe early learning space.

Organization/Author: Community Playthings

Type of Resource: Video

Publication Date: unknown

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