Practice Test Geeks(CDA) Child Development Associate Practice Test
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Principles of Education and Development Flashcards

6 cards from real CDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Principles of Education and Development flashcards as text

  1. What does the term 'developmentally appropriate practice' (DAP) mean in early childhood education?

    Answer: Designing learning experiences that match children's age, individual needs, and cultural context

    DAP requires educators to consider three dimensions: age-appropriateness, individual appropriateness, and cultural/social context when designing experiences.

  2. According to Vygotsky, what is the 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD)?

    Answer: The gap between a child's current ability and what they can achieve with support

    The ZPD is the distance between what a child can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance or collaboration from a more capable peer or adult.

  3. Which theorist described children as 'little scientists' who actively construct knowledge through exploration?

    Answer: Piaget

    Piaget described children as active constructors of knowledge who learn by exploring, experimenting, and making sense of their experiences.

  4. Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory primarily suggests that children's development is shaped by:

    Answer: Multiple nested systems from immediate family to broader cultural and societal forces

    Bronfenbrenner showed that development is influenced by multiple, nested systems — family, school, community, culture — all interacting over time.

  5. Erik Erikson's stage of 'Initiative vs. Guilt' applies most directly to which age group?

    Answer: Preschoolers (3–6 years)

    Erikson's Initiative vs. Guilt stage (ages 3–6) describes how preschoolers develop a sense of purpose and initiative when allowed to lead activities and make decisions.

  6. What does the term 'scaffolding' mean in early childhood education?

    Answer: Providing temporary, adjustable support that helps a child accomplish tasks just beyond their current ability

    Scaffolding provides temporary, targeted support within the ZPD, gradually withdrawing assistance as the child builds competence and independence.