More than a half a million early childhood educators, other professionals, decision makers, and parents have read the previous edition of this book. This newer edition resulted from nearly a decade of lively discussion, ongoing research, and a broader base of experience following the first edition.
I actually read the third edition of this, so there might be some minor differences. Basically, both the Head Start program I work for and my college courses consider this book to be the bible of my educational existence. Not much arguing with that, huh? I really like how informative this book is and appreciate the low amount of filler involved. Still, there are things that are vague within the guidelines, making for possible confusion or disagreement. That said, there is freedom in the loopholes, and I am glad to have a place to find said rules without scouring multiple sources or non-user-friendly webpages. If anyone is in the early childhood field or considering getting into it--or if their child is in this range and a parent is having questions about an issue--this is a great reference tool.
This book covers a broad range of programs - not just programs for libraries. But the concerns over curriculum, gaps based on economic status and race, and things like that are background issues I'm very glad to be aware of (well no, I'm terribly sad to be aware of them because that means they *exist*). My background in early childhood education is limited so this is helping me feel more prepared in that realm and to realize how these issues affect and can inform my own program here at the library.
Every single book that I have read on early childhood education cites this book in some way for some reason. By thumbing through it, anyone can probably understand why. Dr. Bredekamp and Dr. Copple present the most transprent how-to manual ever for distinguising between proper and improper teaching methods in an early childhood classroom. EVERY early childhood teacher should have this book. It is affectionately known as "The Bredekamp book", "Developmentally Appropriate Practice", and "DAP".
This book is short and gets directly to the point. It is great for learning or refreshing your memory on how to appropriately teach children. Super useful!!!