QR5 Learning Materials Requirements

Quality Rating 5: Learning Materials

Requirements

Let’s look at the requirements for Developmentally Appropriate Learning and Practice: Learning Materials: DAP 2.5.

Review the requirements for your program type.

Some terms may be unfamiliar to you. Select the hyperlinks for more information.

Child Care Center

DAP 2.5: Learning Materials

Materials are developmentally appropriate; accessible; promote multiple modes of exploration and learning; reflect children’s interests, cultures and languages; support children of all abilities; and are rotated.

Documentation to  submit: Selection and Use of Materials Statement

Family Child Care

DAP 2.5: Learning Materials

Materials are developmentally appropriate; accessible; promote multiple modes of exploration and learning; reflect children’s interests, cultures and languages; support children of all abilities; and are rotated.

Documentation to  submit: Selection and Use of Materials Statement

School-Age Only

DAP 2.5: Learning Materials

Materials are developmentally appropriate; accessible; promote multiple modes of exploration and learning; reflect children’s interests, cultures and languages; support children of all abilities; and are rotated.

Documentation to  submit: Selection and Use of Materials Statement

Key Terms

Developmentally Appropriate:

Furniture, toys, and equipment are appropriate for the age and ability of the children in the program.

Accessible:

The children’s toys and equipment are within their reach. All children are able to select and return materials independently. A variety of materials are available and adapted to meet the needs of individual children (examples: chubby crayons, adaptive scissors, pencil grips).

Promote Multiple Modes of Exploration and Learning:

A variety of materials provide opportunities for children to use all their senses to explore and learn. Learning materials of different shapes, sizes, textures, and uses allow children experience the world in many ways that promote their development and learning.

Reflect Children’s Interests, Cultures and Languages:

Use materials that represent children’s interests, culture, and home language to communicate that their thoughts, ideas, and cultural backgrounds matter. Selecting materials based on children’s interest and background gives them a sense of belonging and adds a level of motivation for engaging in play and learning activities.

Support Children of All Abilities:

Observing children and other assessment methods can help you determine the developmental levels and skills of each child. Select and adapt materials to allow every child an opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of your program. Offer additional support as needed to help each child meet challenges and experience success.

Rotated:

Offering too many choices to young children at once can be overwhelming. Limiting the choices that are available at any one time and rotating materials from time to time adds novelty and interest that helps children stay engaged in exploration and learning.