The present learning standards for infants and toddlers in the state of Florida came as a direct result of extensive research on child development. Florida seems to have borrowed much from other American states, in particular, Washington and Alaska, and later revised them to meet the distinct needs of its children. Two things are evident in the standards. First is the appreciation that children have unique learning abilities. Second is the acknowledgment that future success in education is dependent on early childhood education experiences.
The early learning standards for infants and toddlers in the state are split up into five domains of development: physical development, approaches to learning, social and emotional development, language and communication, and cognitive development and general knowledge (State of Florida, 2012). By grouping them in this manner, it has become quite easy for parents and teachers to monitor children. It is now possible for parents and teachers to enhance the learning skills of toddlers.
A noteworthy aspect of the standards is the age-specific guidelines. There are no generic guidelines. Instead, the standards provide clear procedures on how to relate with children within a specific age bracket. This is interesting in the light of the fact that children develop differently. Knowing what a child of a particular age-group is capable of doing is the starting point of coming up with activities that enhance learning.
By splitting up the categories into five domains, the state displayed its knowledge on the concept of child development. The standards reveal that learning is not just about mental power or the desire to learn. Instead, learning depends on a vast array of factors, all of which deserve equal attention. Providing toddlers with enriching materials is central to their development. In closing, it is correct to say that these standards have been designed to prepare toddlers for future education.
- State of Florida. (2012). School Readiness Program Curriculum Rubric. www.floridaearlylearning.com.
