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

The Wisdom of Play

https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/literature/wisdom-of-play
David Elkind, Stuart Brown, Larry Schweinhart, and other early childhood experts record their thoughts on the importance of play. Read how play is a child’s way to make sense of their world, and why it is an essential part of emotional and physical well-being. 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: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Play, Topic: Brain Development, Resource Type: Article, NAEYC Kadisha Conteh Standard 1, Standard 4, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Play, Topic: Brain Development, Resource Type: Article, NAEYC Kadisha Conteh

Building Executive Function Skills Through Games: The Power of Playful Learning

Building Executive Function Skills Through Games: The Power of Playful Learning
This article discusses the importance of executive function to children’s learning and development, exploring the connection between EF and playful learning through games.

Organization/Author: Cynthia A. Wiltshire and Molly Scott, Young Children, NAEYC

Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: 2024

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

A Child-Centered Approach for Inspiring Discovery and Learning in Pre-K Students Webinar

A Child-Centered Approach for Inspiring Discovery and Learning in Pre-K Students Webinar
This edWebinar explores how an innovative blend of play, hands-on experiences, direct instruction, and technology can enrich your teaching practices and provide developmentally appropriate, thematically integrated learning experiences. Kara Ball, author and Academic Officer at Teacher Created Materials, addresses the key elements of creating a safe and engaging preschool classroom where children learn through exploration, inquiry, and play. Note: registration is required to view webinar

Organization/Author: Kara Ball, edWeb Webinar

Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2024

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

Differentiation in Preschool

Differentiation in Preschool
This brief article explores differentiation in the preschool classroom.

Organization/Author: Cecilia Cabrera Martirena, Edutopia
Type of Resource: Article

Publication Date: 2021

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Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh

Executive Function: Essential Classroom Skills EdWeb Webinar

Executive Function: Essential Classroom Skills EdWeb Webinar
In this edWebinar, Dr. Andrei Semenov and Renae Ouillette talk about the development of executive function skills and how these skills manifest themselves in the classroom as well as strategies teachers and parents can take to improve a child’s proficiency at these skills. Note: Registration is required to view webinar.

Organization/Author: Dr. Andrei Semenov and Renae Ouillette, edWeb Webinar
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2022

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Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Standard 1, Topic: Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh

Social-Emotional and Executive Functioning Solutions for the Early Childhood Program Webinar

Social-Emotional and Executive Functioning Solutions for the Early Childhood Program Webinar
In this edWebinar, experts cover the theory and significance of social-emotional learning and executive functioning skills development as they relate to early childhood learning programs and highlight the current needs of early childhood programs as related to these areas. Note: registration is required to view webinar.

Organization/Author: Kylie Rymanowicz, edWeb Webinar
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2023

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Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Executive Function Skills Kadisha Conteh

Simple and Effective Strategies to Support Executive Function Skills in Young Children Webinar

Simple and Effective Strategies to Support Executive Function Skills in Young Children Webinar
During this edWebinar, viewers not only learn what executive function is, they also learn strategies and activities they can start using right away to help all children develop strong executive function skills that they can rely on throughout the day. Note: Registration is required to view webinar.

Organization/Author: Julie Tourigny, edWeb Webinar
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2024

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Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Content Knowledge: The Arts, Standard 5 Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Play, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Content Knowledge: The Arts, Standard 5 Kadisha Conteh

Support Preschoolers’ Executive Function and Self-Regulation Skills with Music Webinar

Support Preschoolers’ Executive Function and Self-Regulation Skills with Music Webinar
In this edWebinar, explore the many ways in which developmentally appropriate, participatory, and enjoyable music and movement activities can naturally support young children’s development of important self-regulation and executive function skills, including attention control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. Note: registration is required to view webinar

Organization/Author: Dr. Eliza Braden, and Dr. Sanjuana Rodriguez, edWeb Webinar
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2023

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Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Play, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh Standard 4, Resource Type: Webinar, Topic: Relationships and Interactions, Topic: Play, Topic: Executive Function Skills, Topic: Teaching Skills and Strategies Kadisha Conteh

Executive Function and Challenging Behavior: A New Approach, by Ellen Galinsky Webinar

Routines-Based Planning for Infants and Toddlers
In this paradigm-shifting (recorded) webinar by child development experts, researchers, and author, Ellen Galinsky, you will learn the research implications and strategies that work to help children manage their own behavior through improved executive function. Note: Registration is required to view webinar

Organization/Author: Ellen Galinsky, Early Childhood Investigations 
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2020

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

Play-responsiveness as a Teaching Practice: Using The Original Learning Approach Webinar

Play-responsiveness as a Teaching Practice: Using The Original Learning Approach Webinar
In this recorded webinar, early childhood care and education expert Suzanne Axelsson explores how weaving wonder, curiosity, joy, knowledge, imagination, interaction, risk, time, reflection, and listening can bring teaching closer to a state of play.

Note: registration is required to view webinar

Organization/Author: Suzanne Axelsson, Ph.D, Early Childhood Investigations  
Type of Resource: Webinar

Publication Date: 2023

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Additional Resources

About the Resource Library &

The Professional Standards & Competencies for Early Childhood Educators

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