Background and Mission

Recent research in the development of young children has emphasized the importance of a quality education during the early years of a child's life. Recognizing the significance of this research and assisted by state funding and legislation, the Governor has made a commitment to expand and enhance the quality of early childhood education.

Quality early childhood education programs address the needs of the whole child. Such programs are organized to support the social, emotional and intellectual development of young children and are provided in a nurturing and secure environment. Because play is an integral part of a child's learning, many opportunities for play and exploration are provided in developmentally appropriate early childhood programs. Play-based activities foster the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of each child. Children's learning is best achieved through the use of hands-on activities, both planned and spontaneous, individually or in small groups of children. In addition, successful early childhood education programs build strong home-school and community relationships that support children's development.

The mission of the Office of Early Childhood Education is to enhance the development and implementation of quality early childhood education programs in New Jersey that prepare children to enter school with a foundation of skills and knowledge necessary to meet the Preschool Teaching and Learning Expectations: Standards of Quality.