“This book tackles a 'missing link' in our field, translating research evidence into effective practices for promoting young children's development and learning. Attention is given to evidence-based instructional practices in different curricular domains, the roles of children's environments, and individual characteristics related to early learning. The breadth of coverage makes this volume a particularly valuable resource for advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level courses.”

—Karen E. Diamond, PhD, Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University


“What a treat it was to read this comprehensive treasure trove of information on early education practices. Each chapter opens with a vignette situating its topic within an authentic context, followed by a literature review that summarizes the research base. The truly exceptional part of each chapter is the discussion of implications and applications of the research base for practice. Author after author provides suggestions, leads the reader through descriptions of actual practices, and offers explanations, interpretations, and important insights. Reutzel has produced an absolutely wonderful 'must-have' work for the early education community.”

—Judith Schickedanz, PhD, Professor Emerita, School of Education, Boston University


“Edited and written by nationally recognized experts, this handbook is extremely timely and informative. The volume challenges all early childhood professionals to use the best evidence-based practices in their daily work. The section on 'one size doesn't fit all' provides valuable information on individualization as well as managing classrooms so that all children can learn. The chapters are very readable—something not always found in handbooks—and the selection of topics is strong. For use as a text, the focus on research-based practice will appeal to instructors who want to make sure they are providing cutting-edge content to their undergraduate or graduate classes.”

—Barbara Hanna Wasik, PhD, William R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Professor of Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill