Key Vocabulary from Early Childhood Education

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to early childhood education, including definitions and descriptions of important concepts.

Attachment theory

Explores the importance of early childhood relationships for healthy emotional development.

Brain development

Refers to the complex process by which the brain grows and matures, involving the formation of neural connections.

Child-centered learning

Emphasizes the importance of following the child's interests and allowing them to learn through play.

Cognitive development

Refers to the development of a child's thinking skills, such as language, memory, and problem-solving.

Constructivism

A theory of learning that emphasizes the active role of learners in constructing their own knowledge.

Developmentally appropriate practice

Means providing learning experiences tailored to the child's age and stage of development.

Emergent literacy

Refers to the early literacy skills that children develop before they can read and write conventionally.

Executive function

Refers to the mental skills that allow us to plan, organize, and manage our thoughts and actions.

Inclusive education

Means that all children, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, are educated together.

Language acquisition

Refers to the process by which children learn to understand and use language.

Metacognition

The ability to think about one's own thinking.

Play-based learning

An approach that emphasizes the importance of play for learning and development.

Scaffolding

A teaching technique that provides temporary support to learners as they develop new skills.

Self-regulation

Refers to the ability to manage one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

Social-emotional development

Refers to a child's ability to understand and manage their emotions and build relationships.

Vygotsky's sociocultural theory

Emphasizes the role of social interaction in learning.

Zone of proximal development

The range of tasks that a learner can complete with assistance but not independently.

Attachment disorder

Can occur when a child's early relationships are disrupted or insecure.

Behavioral development

Refers to a child's ability to control their actions and emotions.

Cognitive flexibility

The ability to switch between different thoughts or ideas.

Cultural competence

The ability to understand and respect different cultures.

Early intervention

Providing support to children with developmental delays or disabilities as early as possible.

Executive function skills

Include skills like planning, organizing, and managing time.

Fine motor skills

The small movements we make with our hands and fingers.

Gross motor skills

The large movements we make with our whole body.

Language processing

The ability to understand and use language.

Phonological awareness

The ability to hear and manipulate the sounds of language.

Sensory processing

The way our brain receives and interprets information from our senses.

Temperament

A person's innate behavioral style.