Competency V

Identify the elements of a developmentally appropriate environment.

Teachers ensure that the environment is organized and the schedule follows an orderly
routine that provides a stable structure within which development and learning can take place.
While the environments elements are dynamic and changing, overall it still is predictable and
comprehensible from a childs point of view.
There are many different elements that need to be considered when creating
developmentally appropriate environments. As an infant or toddler caregiver, it is important to be
reflective and responsive to young childrens needs throughout the day. In this course, we will
focus on the many aspects of a developmentally appropriate environment. These areas include:
Health and safety,
The physical environment,
Language and literacy,
The social emotional environment,
Schedules and lesson plans, and
Parental involvement.
Implementing appropriate practice in all these areas is not only beneficial to the growth and
development of the child, but makes the life of the caregiver significantly easier and less
stressful.
The Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards reflect the belief that children should be
provided with opportunities to explore and apply new skills through child-initiated and teacherinitiated activities, and through interactions with peers, adults and materials. Teachers and

families can best guide learning by providing these opportunities in natural, authentic contexts.
Positive relationships help children gain the benefits of instructional experiences and resources.