Active Intervention for Academically At Risk Preschoolers Using Developmentally Appropriate Materials and Activities.

A practicum was designed to provide an intervention for preschoolers who were at risk for academic difficulties. A developmentally appropriate curriculum was used to increase the developmental levels of the children, and training was provided to parents to enhance their parenting skills and knowledge, and consequently to guarantee the stability of the children's developmental gains. Of 157 children in 3 preschool units in 2 school districts, 67 were identified as at risk for academic difficulties. Pre- and post-test data were taken to assess children's gains. Results indicated that the intervention was successful. Significant gains were seen in children's development in cognition, self-care, language, perception, and fine and gross motor functions, and in social and emotional development. Parents demonstrated active involvement in their children's development, and their parenting skills and knowledge of early childhood development increased. Appended are related materials and a list of 58 references. (GLR)