Delivering on the Promise of Effective Early Childhood Education for Black Children: Eliminating Exclusionary Discipline and Concentrating on Inclusion

The authors of this new resource, Cemeré James and Iheoma Iruka, have very skillfully woven solid evidence together with specific practices that can be used to prepare early childhood professionals to support the full participation of black children and their families. Recommendations are organized thematically (e.g., culturally-responsive practice, high expectations of children, developmentally appropriate pedagogy with positive guidance) with specific examples provided for implementation at child/family, classroom, program, and system levels. The authors’ interpretation of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs vis-à-vis supporting black children and families on page 17 is just one of the thoughtful and thought-provoking features of this document. Thank you to the National Black Child Development Institute for this resource!