Research on development of infants and toddlers is the focus of a new message from the Office of Child Care in Washington, D.C. The report highlights research in the key domains that are foundational for later school readiness and success, including:

• perceptual, motor, and physical development
• social and emotional development
• approaches to learning
• language and communication
• cognition

The report by the Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation, Developmental Foundations of School Readiness for Infants and Toddlers: A Research to Practice Report, can help programs use this information as a guide to inform their practices and policies. The report explores theories of change and outcomes that help young children thrive. As we all know, the key to early development for infants and toddlers is all about relationships and interactions that set the stage for their future.

Dave Edie
Early Education Policy Analyst