Includes bibliographical references (pages 399-410) and index.

Part 1. Preparing for learning through assessment, curriculum, and the environment. Starting the process -- Observation and assessment -- Creating curriculum -- The learning environment ; Part 2. Discovering and expanding the early education curriculum. Language and literacy -- Creativity : art and music -- The child's world : social studies and dramatic play -- Sensory play -- Science -- Math -- Fine motor and manipulatives -- Large motor and outdoor play -- Construction : blocks and woodworking -- Putting it all together : evaluation and documentation.