Standard 4- Using Developmentally Effective Approaches to Connect with Children and

Families
Standard 4 emphasizes the importance of understanding the range of different
developmentally appropriate instructional strategies. It also emphasizes the use of different tools
that impact and meet the needs of different childrens development and learning. As a
professional educator it is important to be able to reflect and modify ones approaches/ways in
order to get maximum learning benefit for the child. Diversity is the norm in classrooms these
days and is continuously growing. In order to connect with different children and families from
economically, linguistically, and culturally diverse backgrounds practicing developmentally
effective approaches is vital. Catering to and teaching a child with different ethnic backgrounds
is the essence of developmentally appropriate practices or making the connection.
The artifact that I chose for standard four was a research assignment on informative
childrens websites that can be useful resources for parents and families to facilitate in a childs
learning, from CHD 205: Guiding Behavior of Young Children. Knowing effective strategies
and using a broad repertoire of developmentally approaches was the aim of the assignment.
Educating and informing parents and families about the different resources to benefit from, so
they can be a part of their childs learning, too. Keeping families connected and informed is an
important facet of child learning and development. While doing this assignment I learned about
many resources that I previously didnt discover and know about. Also the importance of using
appropriate strategies like; special accommodations for individuals, small groups or whole group
instruction and their impact on children was clarified. Being able to meet the needs of each child
through differentiated instructions is essential for his/her learning and development. .

Maintaining a positive and supportive relationship is the foundation of a childs learning

and development. Moving forward I will be more adapting and implement developmentally
effective approaches that will enable me to be an effective professional. This will in turn help
children to be the best learners and reach their maximum potential. I now know the importance
of using different instructional strategies for a curriculum to be effective and meaningful. The
information that I gathered will also enable me to cater to and meet the needs of children from all
walks of life and backgrounds.