With an inspiring blend of theory and practical wisdom, this expanded edition demonstrates how to design professional development for teachers that is directly linked to improving student learning.

“The first three years are a crucial time of development. Research on brain development indicates that the brains of infants and toddlers are twice as active as those of adults. By the time children reach the age of three, they have become competent in at least one language, formed a sense of self, learned about basic concepts such as cause-and-effect and quantity, and developed numerous large- and small-muscle skills.” — Jack O’Connell, State Superintendent of Public Instruction (from the foreword)

This free guide, a collaboration between WestEd’s Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) and Community Playthings, provides practical, research-based information on creating surroundings conducive to high quality infant/toddler group care and education.

This informative DVD illustrates the importance of observation in early child care and education settings. It offers strategies for developing accurate and reliable systems of observation and recording.

“Dunne and Villani have succeeded in creating a set of comprehensive resources that will meet the needs of professional developers, school administrators, and mentors.” — Steve Kossakoski, Director, Seacoast Professional Development Center

“This is the ‘soup to nuts’ book that every district implementing a mentor program needs, whether starting from scratch or improving on an existing model.” — Elaine Pinckney, Former Deputy Commissioner, Vermont Department of Education