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A high-quality, research-based curriculum promotes measurable progress toward children’s development. The content and learning outcomes of the curriculum align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) and state early care and education standards. It provides guidance on what (content) and how (learning experiences and teaching practices) to teach. Content is drawn from current child development science, the interests and ideas of the children, family input, and the values of the community. A curriculum also provides ways to create nurturing and responsive practices, interactions, and environments that foster trust and emotional security. It helps families to actively engage in their child’s education. Staff use what they know about each child's strengths and needs and each family's goals to plan their use of the curriculum.
This guide helps education staff explore how a curriculum approaches teaching and learning. Learn how a curriculum addresses learning domains and goals, supports family engagement, and more.
Use this document to understand and explore several aspects of curriculum fidelity in one place. Learn to develop curriculum implementation supports to meet related HSPPS.
In this guide, learn about ways to align curricula and teaching practices with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) domains. Discover how staff can use the ELOF to promote children’s development.
Explore this brief for ways to use a curriculum’s scope and sequence to plan responsive learning experiences for infants and toddlers and their families.
A research-based early childhood curriculum is in line with current studies and best practices on how children develop and learn. It is content-rich and focuses on domain-specific, developmentally appropriate content and skills.
Review key features of early childhood curricula, including scope, sequence, and implementation. Find tips and checklists to ensure alignment with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.
Research-based curricula for the home-based program option is founded on solid research around parenting concepts, skills, and practices that promote healthy child development. Use this checklist to evaluate your home-based curriculum.
When your program is selecting a home-based curriculum, use this checklist to guide the decision-making process.
To implement a curriculum effectively, staff must understand how to use it responsively, intentionally, and with fidelity. Use this resource to implement curriculum in ways that meet the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
An organized developmental scope and sequence outlines what the early childhood curriculum focuses on. It also shows how the plans and materials support children at different stages of development.