STANDARD 4.

USING DEVELOPMENTALLY EFFECTIVE APPROACHES Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs understand that teaching and learning with young children is a complex enterprise, and its details vary depending on childrens ages, characteristics, and the settings within which teaching and learning occur. They understand and use positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for their work with young children and families. Candidates know, understand, and use a wide array of developmentally appropriate approaches, instructional strategies, and tools to connect with children and families and positively influence each childs development and learning (National Association for the Education of Young Children, 2011). Brief Description of Evidence: In ECED 243 Cognitive Curriculum we created fifteen activities based off Howard Gardners theory of Multiple Intelligences. Each activity covers one of the eight intelligences and also follows along with the Foundations to the Indiana Academic Standards for Young Children from Birth to Age 5. They also cover each of the cognitive skill areas that are commonly assessed in early childhood. These activities are used to enhance learning centers in the classroom and serve as an extension for learning at home for they are also take home activities. Analysis of What I Learned: I have gained knowledge about Howard Garners Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Teaching and learning with young children is a complex enterprise that requires tools to connect school with families. After studying his theory, I have gained a better understanding of how to positively influence each childs development in a way that fosters his/her unique style of learning. How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard: These teacher-made activities provide a wide array of developmentally appropriate materials for children ages infant through three, and provide tools to connect children, families, and staff to positively influence the childs development and learning. I now look at each individual child to create learning environments and lesson plan activities that vary depending on the age of the child, his/her personal characteristics, and settings in which the activities will occur.