Older infants are ready to explore their world and are becoming more adventurous as their increasing mobility allows them to have new experiences. They are very curious and will actively investigate objects and people in their environment, while still needing the security that familiar adults provide. Older infants show strong attachment to the adults in […]
Infants four to eight months old are becoming more alert and mobile. They learn about their world through their senses and emerging physical skills. Babies at this age are gaining muscle strength and may achieve a series of physical milestones, including head control and sitting up, which is later followed by creeping or crawling. They […]
In the first months following birth, babies change and grow quickly. Even when babies are born early or with medical concerns, they quickly begin to show the desire to learn about and interact with the world. Newborns learn by seeing, listening, and touching the things that surround them. They begin to communicate their needs and […]
The Guidelines provide expectations for what children should know and be able to do so that everyone who cares for young children can provide learning experiences to prepare children for success in school and life. Learn about the Guidelines for specific age groups by following the links below: Birth-4 months 4-8 months 9-18 months 19-36 […]
The Guidelines can inform curriculum development, instructional practices, and child assessment to ensure that they are supporting children’s development in all domains of learning. Consider how to design activities in such a way that children have the opportunity to acquire skills identified in several early learning domains whenever possible. Complete the training module for practical tips on […]
The Guidelines were created with the input of an Advisory Board made up of a wide variety of stakeholders in Colorado, including representatives of state and national organizations, child care providers, academics, early learning professionals, and others. The Advisory Board met numerous times as a whole and in workgroups to ensure the resulting Guidelines reflected […]
We now know just how critically important early childhood experiences are in shaping the lives of children. Early childhood advocates and experts from across Colorado came together to create the Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines, which reflect broad consensus based on a wealth of research. The Guidelines provide expectations for what children should know […]
Talk with people in your community about the Guidelines and why they are important. Use talking points in English and Spanish to help guide your conversations. Customize newsletter content and share with local blogs, schools, preschools, child care centers, service providers and other partners. Talk with early childhood providers, educators and service providers about the Guidelines. Use talking […]
The Guidelines describe how a typical child develops but it is important to understand that each child learns and develops at their own individual pace. Since each child is different, caregivers should talk with a health care provider or other trusted professional about any questions or concerns. Local early intervention services may also help. You […]
Learning begins long before children start school and teaching isn’t just for teachers. No matter how we interact with young children – whether we’re first-time parents, grandparents or involved friends and neighbors – we all play an important role in giving them a great start. The research-based Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines provide descriptions […]