Facts In Action

An important component of quality early care and education is appropriate interaction between adults and children. The way that teachers interact with children significantly impacts the level of children's engagement.

A recent study explored the types of teacher-student interactions that maintain student interest in classroom activities. The researchers found that children were more focused when they were called on individually, instead of as part of a group. Also, children were more excited about activities that matched their interests.

These findings are consistent with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation criteria. The NAEYC encourages teachers to:

• be available and responsive
• encourage children to share experiences, ideas and feelings
• listen to children with attention and respect

The study and the NAEYC highlight the importance of adult-child interactions in early care and education settings.

Based on this research, it is clear that providing individualized attention will keep children engaged while promoting self-esteem, social competence and intellectual growth.

Source:
Adult Interactions and Child Engagement, R. A. McWilliam, A. A. Scarborough and H. Kim, Early Education and Development, January 2003.

For more information:
contact: R. A. McWilliam, Division of Child Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2100 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN 37232-3573, or email Robin.McWilliam@Vanderbilt.edu.

For more information about NAEYC accreditation, contact: National Association for the Education of Young Children, 1509 16th Street NW, Washington, DC, 20036, by phone at (800) 424-2460, or online at www.naeyc.org.

Facts in Action, May/June 2003