Head Start Resources

This domain refers to children understanding the concepts of numbers, shapes, and patterns among other math subjects. Young children need to develop early math skills to help them connect ideas and to question and analyze the world around them. The mathematic skills 3 to 5 year olds develop will be the foundation of how they solve more complex mathematical concepts and equations later in life. Remember the following elements and examples of mathematical skills 3 to 5 year olds should be developing as you create lesson plans based on suggested guidelines from the Head Start Child Development and Learning Framework:

1. Number Concepts & Quantities
   • Children should understand that numbers represent quantities and that they go in a certain order.
   • Associating numbers and quantities with written numerals is another skill they should be developing at this stage.
   • Children should also learn how to determine quantity by using one-to-one counting or by identifying the number of items without counting.
2. Number Relationships & Operations
   • Using a range of strategies to compare the quantity of two objects is one example of the skills children should be developing in this domain element.
   • Children should also be able to recognize that numbers can be used to make another number.
   • Identifying a new number when others are combined or separated is another skill 3 to 5 year olds need to develop.
3. Geometry & Spatial Sense
   • Children should be able to understand shapes, their attributes, and how they are related to one another.
   • Comparing an object based on size and shape is another important skill for children to learn.
   • Directions and the position of objects are other important concepts children need to develop in this area.
4. Patterns
   • Children should recognize patterns and how they are sequenced.
   • Duplicating and extending simple patterns are other skills children need to acquire in this stage of development.
   • Creating their own patterns is a great indicator of how children's skills are growing in this domain element.
5. Measurement & Comparison
   • Comparing objects by their length, weight, and size are necessary skills 3 to 5 year olds should learn.
   • Using size or length to organize objects into a certain order is another example of what skills children should be developing in this area of the Framework.
   • Using tools and techniques to measure and compare objects also demonstrates the knowledge and skills children are acquiring at this stage in their development.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the Mathematics Knowledge & Skills page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan offers a variety of math materials that give children the opportunity to explore various mathematical concepts. Children can learn about measurements, quantity, shape, patterns, and more with our educational math games, number blocks, books, charts, and other math items.

Kaplan Dough Counting Mats - Set of 9

Item: 86302

In Stock

$19.95

3 years & up. Children can create dough eggs to put in the birds nest! Each dough mat has a numeral and corresponding counting dots so children know how many dough eggs to make and place in the nest. These mats are a wonderful and engaging way to incorporate math and fine motor skills. Activity card(s) included Gently wipe clean with a damp cloth, air dry. Measures 8.5" x 11". Set of 9.

Dinosaur Bones Match & Measuring Cards - Set of 16

Item: 62951

In Stock

$31.95

3 years & up. These exciting Activity Cards are an ideal way to encourage children to match, count, compare, order, and measure the bones they discover in the Dinosaur Bones set (sold separately). The 8" x 11" Activity Cards are made from durable PVC and are great for outdoor use. Bury the 16-piece Dinosaur Bone set in the sand, soil, or water, and they will appeal to children's instincts to explore, investigate, sort, compare, and measure. Buy separately or as a set.

Measurement School Readiness Math Toolbox

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Item: 63191

In Stock

$46.95

3 years & up. Children will be introduced to math concepts such as length, volume, weight, distance, and temperature with the materials and activities in this toolbox. Children will engage in hands-on math activities encouraged by eight activity card(s), road ruler, tape measure, and a set of manipulatives that incorporate all the listed math skills and more.

The Science Knowledge & Skills domain concerns the emerging ability of children to gather information about their surroundings and then organize that information into theories and knowledge. Children are very curious during the early childhood years and encouraging children to explore and learn about the world around them will help them develop an interest in the environment and other science subjects. As you design your Head Start program to meet school readiness goals, consider these elements and examples of the Science Knowledge & Skills domain:

1. Scientific Skills & Method
   • Children should use their senses and other tools to observe and collect information and then use that information to ask questions and investigate science processes and relationships.
   • Children need to be able to observe and discuss similarities, differences, and comparisons among objects at this stage in their development.
   • Another indicator of development in this area is whether children can use past experiences and what they are currently learning to make predictions and discuss explanations and generalizations in the science world.
2. Conceptual Knowledge of the Natural & Physical World
   • Observing, discussing, and describing living things and natural processes are a few skills 3 to 5 year olds need to develop in this area.
   • Children should also be able to make observations, describe, and discuss material properties and how substances transform.
   • Acquiring knowledge of the concepts and facts of science and then using that knowledge to understand relationships in nature and the environment is another skill children need to learn at this stage in their development.

Visit the Science Knowledge & Skills page on ECLKC's website for more in-depth information and resources about this domain.

Be sure to check out Kaplan's science book sets, aquariums, magnets, microscopes, scales, bug and animal sets, and our educational light table. Our science materials and supplies make great additions to the classroom and can help your Head Start program meet requirements and guidelines.

Shadow Matching and Memory Game

Item: 70834

In Stock

$44.95

3 years & up. Build awareness and support cognitive development with this engaging shadow matching game! Children will love putting their reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to the test as you challenge them to match the objects on the cards to their correct silhouette. Perfect for individual or group play, this matching game provides hours of fun! 3 - 4 players. Includes 2 double-side boards and 36 tiles.

The Social Studies Knowledge & Skills domain refers to children understanding how people relate to one another and the world around them. The social studies skills children develop this stage in their development will help them learn about themselves, their family, community, nation, and the world. Keep in mind the following domain elements and skill examples when you are choosing assessments and curricula for your Head Start program:

1. Self, Family, & Community
   • Children should be able to identify their personal and family structure and understand and respect the similarities and differences among people.
   • Being able to recognize the work associated with a variety of jobs is another skill children should be developing at this stage.
   • Understanding why there are rules at home and in the classroom and laws in the community is also an important concept 3 to 5 year olds need to develop.
2. People & the Environment
   • Children should be able to recognize different aspects of the environment, such as land formations, roads, buildings, trees, and bodies of water.
   • They should also recognize that the environment is shared by people, plants, and animals.
   • Understanding that activities, such as recycling or turning off the water when they brush their teeth, can help take care of the environment is another important concept children need to learn at this stage in their development.
3. History & Events
   • Children should be able to differentiate between the past, present, and future.
   • The ability to recognize what events happened in the past is an important skill for 3 to 5 year olds to develop.
   • Understanding how people live and that what they do changes over time will help children be successful now and in the future.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the Social Studies Knowledge & Skills page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan offers a wide variety of globes, multi-cultural items and activities, character education book sets, maps, activity books, and much more. Our social studies products will help children learn about diversity, traditions, history, and other cultures.

Recycling Zone - Learn What Materials Can Be Recycled

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Item: 70482

In Stock

$44.95

3 years & up. Introduce conservation practices to your children with this descriptive Recycling Zone Learn What Materials Can Be Recycled. This poster promotes environmental awareness, community, and earth conscientiousness. Children will learn what common materials from their home can be recycled. For an after lesson game, divide your class into four teams, and have them discuss what should be recycled. Afterward, have them place the tiles under the correct zone. Includes one large board and 20 tiles.

This domain of the Head Start Child Development and Learning Framework focuses on children's physical well-being, which refers to nutrition, exercise, personal hygiene, safety practices, and development of gross and fine motor skills. Learning good health habits early in life will help build a strong foundation for lifelong healthy living. Consider these four main elements and examples for Physical Development and Health when you are planning your Head Start program's curricula and assessments:

1. Physical Health Status
   • Children should have good health overall.
   • Children need to get a sufficient amount of rest and exercise for their age.
   • Maintaining physical growth within the appropriate ranges of weight, height, and age is also important in determining how a child develops mentally, physically, and emotionally during this stage of their life.
2. Health Knowledge & Practice
   • Children should understand and practice healthy and safe habits.
   • Completing personal care tasks independently is another indicator of how children are growing in this area of the Framework.
   • Children cooperating during doctor or dental visits and recognizing the importance of those visits shows a major step they have taken in the developmental process.
3. Gross Motor Skills
   • Understanding how the body moves and how to control their own body is an indicator of growth in this area of the Framework.
   • Balanced movements and coordination for a range of activities are also skills 3 to 5 year olds should be developing.
4. Fine Motor Skills
   • Children should be developing increased hand strength, dexterity, and eye-hand coordination.
   • Manipulating a range or objects, such as blocks or art supplies, is another indicator of the skills children need to acquire at this stage in their development.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the Physical Development & Health page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan's selection of playground, nutrition, and active play items would make great additions to your Head Start program's lesson plans and curricula.

Health and Your Body Books - Set of 4

Item: 62422

In Stock

$32.95

4 years & up. Inspire good habits with these easy to read introductions Good Health Habits and Your Body Nutritious Living Books. Whether learning about proper nutrition or understanding how our bodies work, kids will get the facts they need to help keep them in good health.This wonderful set of books promote healthy living, literacy, activity, and nutrition. Encourage children to ask questions about concepts or vocabulary they are unfamiliar with. Set of 4 paperback books.

Body Poetry: Yoga Card Poses with Three Levels of Difficulty

Item: 86020

In Stock

$33.95

4 years & up. Take a mindfulness moment with these engaging Body Poetry: Yoga Poses with Three Levels of Difficulty Cards. Children will enjoy stretching, strutting, waddling, prancing and strolling around! Use this set of 16 cards to lead children in safe, fun, and healthy exercises. These activities promote gross motor skills, flexibility, and balance. Cards are divided into three categories, easy, intermediate, and challenging. Activity card(s) included.

Step-A-Forest - 24 Pieces

Item: 62491

In Stock

$304.95

18 months & up. Made of durable plastic with soft, non-slip surface lines and rings, this unique set allows children to practice balance and gain confidence as they explore the path they created. The pieces can be arranged in endless combinations to develop and enhance gross motor skills. Straight logs are 19"L and tallest stumps are 5.5"H.

The Social & Emotional Development domain concerns the social and emotional skills that help children have and maintain healthy relationships, develop a healthy personal identity, regulate behavior and emotions, and foster secure attachment to adults. The emotional and social well-being of children will indicate the type of relationships they have as adults and how they will adjust to new environments in the future. As you consider how to promote continuous quality improvement in your Head Start program, remember the following elements and examples of the Social & Emotional Development domain:

1. Social Relationships
   • Children should interact and have healthy relationships with adults and their peers.
   • Communicating with others and accepting or requesting guidance also indicates that 3 to 5 year olds are developing good social skills.
   • Recognizing and labeling the emotions of others and using socially appropriate behavior with adults and peers are other examples of how children should be developing emotionally and socially.
2. Self-Concept & Self-Efficacy
   • Children need to identify their own personal characteristics, preferences, thoughts, and feelings.
   • Showing confidence in accomplishing tasks, meeting goals, and making decisions indicates that 3 to 5 year olds are developing increasing skills in this area of the Framework.
   • Demonstrating age-appropriate independence in a range of activities and in decision making should also be skills children are developing.
3. Self-Regulations
   • Children recognizing and regulating their own emotions and behaviors is a sign that they are developing at the right pace for this age group.
   • Following rules, routines, and directions with minimal input from adults also indicates that children are growing in this area of the Framework.
   • Children should also be learning to handle impulses or distractions independently from adults.
4. Emotional & Behavioral Health
   • Expressing a healthy range of emotions and being open to learning positive alternatives to negative behaviors shows that children are developing good emotional and behavioral habits.
   • Adapting to new environments with age-appropriate emotions and behaviors also indicates that children are growing in this area of the Framework.

Visit the Social & Emotional Development page on ECLKC's website for more in-depth information and resources about this domain.

Kaplan's selection of social and emotional books, CDs, assessments, and other products and resources are valuable tools you can use to create a Head Start program that can help children meet school readiness goals.

My Feelings Carpet - 4' x 6' Oval

Item: 62919

In Stock

$184.95

Encourage children to identify their feelings and understand the relationship between their actions and other's responses with the My Feelings Carpet. Children will be able to relate to each of the ten emotions (happy, embarrassed, surprised, worried, angry, proud, shy, confused, scared, and sad). Measures 4' x 6'.

Social and Emotional Foundation Kit - 40+ Pieces

Item: 63776

In Stock

$710.95

3 years & up. Invite children into a safe place to sort, share, and work through their emotions. This area provides a comfortable place to use a variety of engaging social and emotional materials and self-discovery tools that encourage children to identify what they are feeling and find appropriate ways to handle their emotions. While sitting in the Comfort Zone, children can choose from the included Baby Monster Puppet, 10 books, 12-piece poster set, 8 puzzles, 6 self-reflective mirrors, 3… More »

Identifying Feelings Classroom Set with Activities and Guide

Item: 63783

In Stock

$54.95

3 years & up. Give the children in your classroom an opportunity to identify their personal feelings with 50 common life scenarios. Children may not always feel the same way as their peers in specific situations and life events. This set gives them the self-discovery tools needed to evaluate how they feel and to understand that others may not feel the same way. Includes a set of emotions tiles for 10 children (depicting 6 emotions each), instruction cards, and 50 activity cards.

The Creative Arts Expression domain refers to children participating in a range of activities for creative and imaginative expression. Creative arts, such as music, art, and drama, help engage children's minds, bodies, and senses and help them develop positive forms of self-expression. The following domain elements and examples for Creative Arts Expression are important to remember as you make decisions for your Head Start center:

1. Music
   • Children should be participating in music activities or experimenting with musical instruments.
   • Creative Movement & Dance
   • Using their body to dance to different beats in music or to express their ideas or feelings is one example of how 3 to 5 year olds should be developing at this stage of their life.
2. Art
   • Children should use a range of materials and techniques to make art.
   • Discussing their own projects and other people's art projects indicates growth and development in this area of the Framework.
   • Children should also reflect their thoughts and feelings in their art.
3. Drama
   • Children should portray events, characters, or stories through dialogue, actions, or objects.
   • Using their imagination and creativity to assume roles in dramatic play is a great of example of how children should be growing in the Creative Arts Expression domain.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the Creative Arts Expression page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan's offers a wide variety of arts and crafts, dramatic play items, and music and dance materials. Any of these creative expression items would make great additions to your Head Start program.

Boomwhackers Activity Kit

Item: 48088

In Stock

$54.95

3 years & up. Whack almost anything to produce tones - thigh, hand, table chair, floor, etc. Different surfaces produce different sounds. Boomwhackers CD has seven activities that may be played independently or as a group. Set includes CD and 8 note boomwhackers.

15-Player Rhythm Band Kit

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Item: 30397

In Stock

$109.95

3 years & up. Bring your space to life with great music! Learn the basics of melody and rhythm with this extensive musical instrument kit. Great for large groups of children or anyone interested in learning the basics of several instruments. Includes: 3- 8" rhythm sticks, 1 pair of maracas,1 crow sounder, 1 pair of sand blocks, 1 pair of tap-tap blocks, 1 frame drum, 1 cymbal, 1 triangle, 2 wrist bells, 3 jingle sticks and instructional DVD.

The Approaches to Learning domain refers to certain behaviors you can observe that indicate the ways in which children become engaged in learning experiences and social interactions. Observing these behaviors will help you develop programs that accommodate children's approaches to learning, which will then contribute to their learning in other domains and in their success in school and life. Remember the domain elements and examples of this domain as you work to put together a Head Start program that meets requirements and helps children with school readiness goals:

1. Initiative & Curiosity
   • Children should be asking questions and seeking new independence at this stage in their development. They should also show an interest in a variety of topics and activities and have a desire to learn and be creative.
   • Children who demonstrate flexibility, inventiveness, and imagination in their approach to tasks and activities are also showing their growth in this domain of the Framework.
   • An eagerness to learn and discuss a variety of ideas and topics an excellent example of how children need to develop in this area.
2. Persistence & Attentiveness
   • Children's attention spans should be growing during this stage in their development. They should be able to begin and maintain projects and activities with interest and persistence.
   • Setting goals, developing, and following through on plans for projects and activities is another indicator of how children are gaining skills in this domain of the Framework.
   • Children need to learn to resist distractions, maintain attention, and continue with the task or activity they are working on even if they find it to be frustrating or challenging.
3. Cooperation
   • Planning, initiating, and completing learning activities with peers are great indicators of children's interest in group experiences.
   • Cooperative play with others and inviting peers to play are other examples of how children should be developing in this domain of the Framework.
   • Children should also be willing to help, share, and cooperate in a group at this stage in their development.

Visit the Approaches to Learning page on ECLKC's website for more in-depth information and resources about this domain.

Kaplan's selection of differentiated instruction and inclusion products will help your program teach children effectively. We offer a variety of lesson plans, study cards, reading strips, books, classroom labels, and more for you to incorporate into your Head Start program.

See-Through Composter

Item: 89312

In Stock

$54.95

PreK & up. Children can easily explore decomposition, composting, life cycles, and environmental education. Three separate, aerated compartments enable children to view the entire decomposition process clearly and make side-by-side comparisons between different materials. Ecological education includes composting, decomposition, and life cycles. Teacher guide included. Composter measures 12"W x 4"D x 8"H.

Investigations Kit for Preschool

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Item: 63054

In Stock

$438.95

3 years & up. The hands-on exploratory nature of studies in the classroom taps into children's natural curiosity, resulting in a learning environment that is both fun and intentional. This Investigations Kit offers a wide range of tools and materials to support and encourage these in-depth investigations. Kit includes: 20 Child-sized clipboards, Tripod Magnifier, 6 Magnifying Glasses, 6 Binoculars, 6 Magnetic Wands, 10 Measuring Tapes, 6 Sorting Hoops, "Comparing Materials" book set… More »

The Language Development domain focuses on children developing abilities in receptive and expressive language and often includes understanding and using at least one or more languages. Language skills are important for children to develop because they dictate how children will communicate now and in the future. Keep in mind the following elements and examples of the Language Development domain as you decide what curricula best serve the needs of the children your Head Start program serves:

1. Receptive Language
   • Children should be able to comprehend different forms of language, different rules for using language, and increasingly complex vocabulary during this stage of their development.
   • Paying attention to language in learning experiences, such conversations, stories, and songs, also indicates how children are growing in this area of the Framework.
2. Expressive Language
   • Children should be able to use different forms of language to express ideas and needs, use different grammar rules for various purposes, and use a more complex and varied vocabulary.
   • Engaging in communication and storytelling with peers and adults is another indicator that children are able to use language efficiently.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the Language Development page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan offers a variety of language and literacy materials to help children increase their vocabulary and learn about the writing process.

Occupation Puppets - Set of 8

Item: 46167

In Stock

$134.95

12 months & up. Excellent for creative role-play, career, and cultural awareness activities. These 8 puppets have appropriate outfits which illustrate different occupations. Set includes: doctor, chef, fireman, postal worker, construction worker, farmer, veterinarian, and policeman. 12"L.

The Literacy Knowledge & Skills domain refers to the basic concepts and skills that help create a strong foundation for reading and writing. Knowing how to read and write will help children gain knowledge in other areas and encourage them to succeed in school. Remember the following domain elements and examples as you make decisions for your Head Start program:

1. Book Appreciation & Knowledge
   • Children should recognize how books are read and the common basic characteristics of books at this stage in their development.
   • Showing interest in shared reading experiences, looking at books independently, asking and answering questions about materials, and being interested in different genres of books are all great examples of how children gain book appreciation and knowledge.
   • Children retelling stories from books through conversation and creative outlets is another indicator of the skills 3 to 5 year olds are developing.
2. Phonological Awareness
   • Children identifying and discriminating between words in language, separate syllables in words, and sounds and phonemes in language are great indicators of the skills they have gained in this domain element.
3. Alphabet Knowledge
   • Children should learn to recognize the letters of the alphabet and recognize that each letter has a distinct sound(s) associated with it.
   • Learning to identify alphabet letters and associate the correct sounds with those letters should also be a skill children learn during this stage in their development.
4. Print Concepts & Conventions
   • Children should be able to recognize print in everyday life and understand that print conveys meaning, which they must then work to understand.
   • Understanding the conventions of print and recognizing the relationship between spoken and written words are also important concepts children need to learn.
5. Early Writing
   • Children need to recognize that writing is a way of communicating and start experimenting with writing tools and materials.
   • Copying, tracing, or independently writing letters or words shows that children are beginning to learn how to write.

Visit the Literacy Knowledge & Skills page on ECLKC's website for more in-depth information and resources about this domain.

Kaplan's selection of language and literacy materials can help children learn the alphabet, phonics, and more.

Kaplan Dough Literacy Mats - Set of 26

Item: 86301

In Stock

$27.95

2 years & up. Children can create dough objects to put on the dough mats! Each mat has a letter and corresponding object for children to make and place on the mat. These mats are a wonderful and engaging way to incorporate literacy and fine motor skills. Activity card(s) included Gently wipe clean with a damp cloth, air dry. Measures 8.5" x 11". Set of 26.

Writing Readiness Prewriting Skills Book - Dry-Erase

Item: 63728

In Stock

$39.95

3 years & up. Give early writers some captivating visual aids with the Writing Readiness Prewriting Skills Book. Featuring 16 double-sided pages, this book introduces young children to 8 basic writing strokes by locating a writing stroke (like a straight line) within a real-world image (like a fence) and prompting children to trace the stroke. This book is a unique, engaging way to teach children fundamental writing skills.

Library Starter Books - Set of 13

Item: 46687

In Stock

$163.95

3 years & up. Leap into learning through reading and build a fantastic library collection! We have blended traditional and newer titles for a variety of themes, illustrative techniques, and writing styles. Paperback-hardback combination. Set of 13 books.

Alphabet Acorns Activity Set

Item: 63754

In Stock

$41.95

3 years & up. Learn letters and vocabulary with acorns! Match uppercase and lowercase letters and match color-coded figures to their appropriate beginning letter. Includes 26 two-piece acorns and 26 color-coded figures, 1 for each letter! Acorns measure 2"L x 2.5"H.

The English Language Development domain only applies to children who are dual language learners (DLLs). The development of English language skills for children who speak a different first language is important because the ability to understand and speak at least some English will help them in their studies and in everyday life. Be sure to remember these domain elements and examples when you are choosing curricula and assessments for your Head Start program:

1. Receptive English Language Skills
   • Nonverbally responding or acknowledging common words or phrases and participating with movement or gestures while others dance and sing in English are good indicators that DLLs have developed the ability to understand English.
   • Following directions in English with minimal assistance or nonverbally responding to questions are also examples of behaviors DLLs may show as they are learning English.
2. Expressive English Language Skills
   • Repeating words or phrases or requesting simple items in English shows that DLLs have started to develop an ability to speak English.
   • Children who use an increasingly complex English vocabulary or construct simple sentences are also showing that they have learned skills in how to use English to communicate.
3. Engagement in English Literacy Activities
   • Eagerness to participate in songs or stories in English and repeating part of a poem or song are examples of behaviors that show DLLs understand and can respond to items presented in English.
   • Talking with others about a story read in English or telling a story in English indicates that DLLs have grown in their engagement with the English language.

For more in-depth information about this domain, visit the English Language Development page on ECLKC's website.

Kaplan's offers a variety of bilingual and English language learner materials to help children learn and become fluent in the English language. These items would be great additions to your Head Start program, especially if you have DLLs enrolled in your program.

Bilingual Photo Food Cards - 90 Pieces

Item: 12101

In Stock

$31.95

This set of 90 colorful cards feature an array of photos from all food groups and cultures. Foods are identified in both English and Spanish. Use these cards as a foundation to learn and discuss nutrition. Photo Cards measure 4.25" x 5".