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Early Learning 101

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Support & Enhance Children’s Learning and Development

A child’s cognitive learning is developed through play experiences, building connections within their environment, and secure and nurturing early care and educational experiences. These areas of development are detailed within the Iowa Early Learning Standards which support what children should know and be able to do, birth through age five, as they grow in their overall school and life readiness. 

The Iowa Early Learning Standards

A child’s cognitive learning is developed through play experiences, building connections within their environment, and secure and nurturing early care and educational experiences. These areas of development are detailed within the Iowa Early Learning Standards which support what children should know and be able to do, birth through age five, as they grow in their overall school and life readiness.

View Full IELS Document         View Spanish Document

An Overview of the Iowa Early Learning Standards

Section One

  • Cover
  • Table of Contents
  • Invitation Letter
  • Introduction
  • Essentials

View IELS Section One

Section Two

  • Standards
  • Benchmarks
  • Examples
  • Adult Support

View IELS Section Two

Section Three

  • Alignment with Iowa Core

View IELS Section Three

Section Four

  • References

View IELS Section Four

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Core Aspects of Child Development

Created for any positive adult in the life of a child, the Iowa Core Knowledge of Child Development lays out eight notable aspects of early childhood learning and development. Whether a parent, guardian, grandparent, child care provider, retail employee, medical provider, or anything else, utilize the eight core aspects to expand and improve your response to the children in your life.

All Areas of Development and Learning are Important

Balanced Nutrition, Adequate Sleep, and Physical Activity Help Children Grow

Children are Influenced by Their Family, Community and Cultural Experiences

Children Develop Best when they have Secure and Positive Relationships

Early Experiences and Relationships have Profound Effects on Brain Development

Learning and Development Occurs in Specific Order, but at Different Rates

Children Learn in a Variety of Ways

Play is Learning