Dear Members, Partners, and Friends,

We are so pleased to share with you the new, fourth edition of the Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) position statement. We are deeply grateful to the many members of the DAP work group and the NAEYC Governing Board, as well as the early childhood educators and faculty members who shared their experience, expertise, and guidance over the course of revising this position statement.

First published nearly 40 years ago, this foundational position statement is one of five created by NAEYC in collaboration with the early childhood profession. It puts forth a framework for educators to promote each child’s optimal development and learning through a strengths-based, play-based approach to joyful, engaged learning.

While many of the core considerations, principles, guidelines, and recommendations remain consistent with previous editions, there are critical changes, which align with the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators and the Advancing Equity in Early Childhood Education position statements. This edition of DAP reflects new research that—more extensively than in previous editions—ensures each piece of the position statement 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.

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No matter your role, we hope you will read the statement today, and commit to sharing it with your colleagues, including on social media, using the hashtag #naeycDAP.
Independientemente de su función, esperamos que hoy lea la declaración y se comprometa a compartirla con sus colegas, incluso en las redes sociales, utilizando el hashtag #naeycDAP.

As you explore, grow, and adapt your own practices, even and especially in these difficult times, we urge you to continue turning to NAEYC, where we have an extensive collection of DAP resources and supports, including Young Children and Teaching Young Children articles, professional development opportunities, and books that support deep understanding of the position statement. These resources include recent publications on understanding implicit bias, teaching in ways that support equity and DAP, supporting children’s social and emotional development, and engaging in playful learning. Additional books and training specifically highlighting the connections between DAP and equity will be released throughout the coming year, so stay tuned.

We see and appreciate each of you for everything you do to ensure all of our children, in every community, are able to receive the gifts of a meaningful, joyful learning experience that builds on their strengths and helps them achieve their full potential.

Stay safe and well,

Ann McClain Terrell, NAEYC Governing Board President  

Rhian Evans Allvin, Chief Executive Officer