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Approaches to Learning

Approaches to Learning is one of the five central domains of the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF). It focuses on how children learn. These resources explore how children acquire the skills and behaviors they use to engage in learning, such as self-regulation, initiative, curiosity, and creativity.

Other ELOF domains include Social and Emotional Development; Language and Literacy; Cognition; and Perceptual, Motor, and Physical Development.

It’s Make-believable

Make-believe play is an important part of a research-based curriculum and practices you use every day. The sky is the limit as children create play experiences to explore scenarios from their world and beyond!

Approaches to Learning During the Third Year of Life

As children play, their brain builds connections that support many skills, including the skill of self-regulation. Learn how you can be the child’s most important teacher and “guide on the side” as they play.

Approaches to Learning During the Second Year of Life

Toddlers learn by following their curiosity. Learn how to support them as they gain new skills and concepts by exploring and experimenting. Discover ways you can guide their learning as they engage with the world.

Approaches to Learning, Birth to 5

This season of Teacher Time focuses on the four sub-domains of the ELOF Approaches to Learning domain. Each episode highlights teaching and learning experiences that support children’s approaches to learning in ways that are culturally and linguistically responsive and promote children’s sense of identity.

Preschool Approaches to Learning

These four Teacher Time episodes focus on supporting the four sub-domains of the ELOF Approaches to Learning domain with preschoolers and their families.

Infant/Toddler Approaches to Learning

These four Teacher Time episodes focus on supporting the four sub-domains of the ELOF Approaches to Learning domain with infants, toddlers, and their families.