Malone Sutherland

FHS 2600
Understanding DAP
DAP stands for Developmentally Appropriate Practice. DAP is especially important for
children in their critical period for learning the basics of schooling. Developmentally
Appropriate Practice is when you teach children appropriately for their age. For example, a child
who is 4 years of age should be learning things that are meant for a 4 year old. A 4 year old
should be learning how to spell their name, and learning how to use scissors and other motor
skills. A 4 year old should not be learning how to read books, or how to write in cursive, and so
on. However, if you have a 4 year old who is advanced for their age, a typical 4 year olds
curriculum may not be appropriate for that certain 4 year old. If your 4 year old is already
attempting to read, it is appropriate to help the child succeed at the level they are naturally at. On
the contrary, there may be some children who are 4 years old but are on the same level
academically and typically, socially as a 2 year old. In such case, you should adjust your
teaching style and techniques to match whatever that child may need.
Developmentally Appropriate Practice should be taught with a purpose. You need to
appreciate and recognize that each child has different needs and specialties and that you cannot
teach all children the same way. Although, you should try your best to stay on track for their age
group all while trying to make certain accommodations for certain children and their specific
needs.
To continue, NAEYC is a very beneficial program to both students, parents, and teachers.
NAEYC helps promote appropriate childhood education and helps to guide teachers in the right
direction to be the most effective in their teaching.