Introduction to Early Childhood Education, 5E offers all of the tried and true, comprehensive information available in previous editions, along with many new and pertinent features and benefits. Most importantly, this book provides a fully comprehensive overview of early childhood education that is solidly based on current research and theories. Readers will have at their fingertips an introduction to the field of early childhood education that is grounded in constructivist theory but also covers other theories. With a focus on developmentally appropriate for infants and toddlers, preschoolers, early elementary school children, and children with special needs, the book also includes extensively revised subsections covering appropriateness within a range of relevant topics, including the scope and need of the field of early childhood education; families, teachers and caregivers; and goals, objectives, and evaluations. The bulk of the book examines curriculum, fostering creativity, as well as physical, cognitive, language, and social development. Every facet of early childhood education is examined and explained, and with the new enhancements, will leave each reader with a thorough and comprehensive education. There is also new information about professional development to help guide the reader into the field of early childhood education. With a strong focus on DAP (developmentally appropriate practice) as well as updated references, examples from practitioners and additional legislation information, this book has become the most comprehensive resource available.