NAEYC

Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)

The fourth edition of the developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) position statement and book reflect new research that underscores the importance of social, cultural, and historical contexts of development and elevates the need for active engagement through play, exploration, and inquiry in ways that support the whole child. Find information about all of NAEYC’s DAP resources here.

 

DAP Fourth Edition

A teacher instructing young children in a classroom.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) Position Statement

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Cover of Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8, Fourth Edit
Book

Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8, Fourth Edition

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a group of children with a teacher

DAP: Early Childhood Educator and General Resources

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a child with glasses

DAP: K-3 Resources

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Webform

Get Faculty Resources for the Fourth Edition of DAP

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A woman speaking with other people around her.

DAP Online Professional Development

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NAEYC's DAP Resources

Cover of Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8, Fourth Edit
Book

Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8, Fourth Edition

Members Only
Cover of Casebook: Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8
Book

Casebook: Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8

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Cover of Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning for Infants and Toddlers
Book

Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning with Infants and Toddlers

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Cover of Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning in Preschool
Book

Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning in Preschool

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Cover of Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning in Kindergarten
Book

Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Equitable and Joyful Learning in Kindergarten

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Woman in library

Which DAP Resource Is for Me?

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DAP Supports and Videos

a child and teacher playing with blocks

Background for Advocates and Educators Supporting #DAPinECE

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Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Action

Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Action

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susan and alissa discussing dap

NAEYC experts Susan Friedman and Alissa Mwenelupembe discuss the importance of understanding Developmentally Appropriate Practice.

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