DAP teaching

Discussion Post Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)

Teacher Chosen: The teacher doing the block-building activity.

I chose the teacher who worked with the children during the block-building lesson. Her teaching showed Developmentally Appropriate Practice because she planned the activity based on what young children usually need and enjoy at this age. She understood that preschoolers learn best through hands-on play, experimenting, and using their imagination. Building with blocks helps children develop problem-solving skills, balance, spatial awareness, and early math concepts. Because she knew these are common parts of childrens development, she set up an open and inviting play area with many kinds of blocks so the children could explore and learn naturally.

The teacher also used her knowledge of individual appropriateness. She didnt treat all the children the same. Instead, she paid attention to what each child was doing and what they were ready for. For example, if a child was just learning how to stack blocks, she offered simple support and encouragement. For a child building a more complicated structure, she asked deeper questions like, How can you make it stronger? This showed that she knew each childs skill level and adjusted her help to match their needs.

For social and cultural contexts, the video didnt show a strong cultural connection, but the teacher could easily make one. She could ask questions like, What buildings do you see in your neighborhood? or Does this look like a place your family visits? She could even add pictures of homes, stores, or landmarks from the childrens backgrounds. This would help the activity connect to their home lives and cultures. JUST REWRITE IT so it doesnt say AI use