Introduction
Early Experiences Matter--whether at home with family, childcare, preschool, kindergarten, primary grades, neighborhood and community. The importance of high quality early childhood experiences that are research based is the foundation for school success and lifelong learning. VELS make explicit the goals for each and every child’s learning and development from birth through grade 3. Think of VELS as a road map that helps to guide understanding of what a child may know and do across the early learning years.
Use VELS to:
- Inform families about the development and capabilities of their children;
- Emphasize the importance of play as the foundation for each and every child’s development and learning;
- Guide intentional teaching practices that address each and every child’s uniqueness;
- Guide selection of program-wide curriculum that is culturally and ability diverse;
- Contribute to a shared language and public awareness about the significance of high quality early childhood education and experiences, and the need to invest resources early and wisely.
To learn more about the purpose and guiding principles that underpin the Vermont Early Learning Standards, click on the button below.
Domains of Learning
Domains are broad areas of growth, development and learning that focus on all that happens in the years from birth through grade 3. The domains are presented across the following three sections:
Developing Self
Includes the domains: Approaches to Learning; Social and Emotional Learning and Development; and Growth, Moving and Being Healthy
Communication and Expression
Includes the domains: Language Development; Literacy Development; Creative Arts and Expression
Learning About the World
Includes the domains: Mathematics; Science; and Social Studies
