Setting Up the Framework for Future Development

In the section of the Developmentally Appropriate Practices Position Statement entitled "Principles of child development and learning that inform practice" item 5 states "Early experiences have profound effects, both cumulative and delayed, on a child's development and learning...". Sometimes I think we confuse this fact with the perspective that children are resiliant and can deal with almost anything. It may appear that a child is doing fine but the effects of inappropriate teaching practices may not become evident until later (delayed). One of the major roles of early educators is to set up the background knowledge and experience that prepares children for future cognitive abilities and tasks. If the background knowledge and experience is not there such as knowing the value of print or understanding one to one correspondance later when a child is expected to master reading comprehension or addition the child will not have the cognitive tools they need to be successful. Set up the framework for future task don't rush to the tasks themselves!