Purposes of the Guidelines

The Colorado Early Learning and Developmental Guidelines are intended to

• improve families’ and professionals’ knowledge of child development;
• guide families and professionals working with children in planning and implementing developmental and learning activities;
• inform or guide developmental support, instruction, assessment, and intervention; and
• provide unifying guidelines that are embraced by and embedded in programs and services (e.g., early care and education, home visitation, medical homes, early intervention) across the comprehensive early childhood service delivery system.

These purposes are consistent with reports from several national groups studying the development of state-level early learning standards (NAEYC & NAECS/SDE, 2002; Shore, Bodrova, & Leong, 2004).

Note about the Guidelines

It is important to arrange for regular health and developmental exams with a health care provider. These are usually part of a well-child visit and can include vision, hearing, and oral health screenings.

Questions? Concerns?

The Guidelines describe how a typical child develops but it is important to understand that each child learns and develops at his or her own individual pace. Since each child is different, caregivers and parents should talk with a health care provider or other trusted professional about any questions or concerns. For more information about questions or concerns you may have, please contact us.