Infant and Toddler Programs: Recommendations for Quality Child-Teacher Interactions

Abstract

Recommendations for practices that strengthen early childhood programs are proposed based on findings from two studies. In one study, researchers in the Midwest Child Care Research Consortium conducted a study to assess program quality. In the second study, observations were conducted using the Environment Rating Scales as part of the Missouri Quality Rating System Pilot Study. The Infant-Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Revised is widely used to assess infant and toddler classrooms. Items from the Environment Rating Scale that were consistently rated as below average are divided into four program components: displayed materials, block play, pretend play, and free play. Specific recommendations for improving programs are outlined.