DCF SCHOOL AGE APPROPRIATE PRACTICES
COMPETENCY REVIEW 2026 MOCK TEST
COMPLETE KEY INSIGHTS
◉ Structural indicators
Answer: are things that are "regulable," meaning they can be
monitored and are important for providing consistent care.
EX: Licensure
Lower ratios
Smaller group size
Caregiver qualifications
Professional development for staff
Health and safety regulations
Inclusive environment
◉ Process indicators
Answer: are what programs "do" to help promote development
through specific activities and intentional practices. Process
indicators are observable interactions.
EX: Curriculum and established routines
, Language and reasoning activities
Sensitive, responsive interactions
Collaboration and provisions for parents and families
Parent, teacher, and child interactions
Child-sized furnishings
Well defined and equipped space that meets the needs of all children
◉ Studies suggest quality experiences early in life lead to better
outcomes for children. These experiences lead to:
Answer: Lower delinquency rates
Increased graduation rates
Adults who earn higher salaries
Increased home ownership
Better cognitive and language skills
Adults who spend less time participating in social programs or on
welfare
◉ Quality Preschool
Answer: Developmentally appropriate curriculum
Developmentally appropriate assessment procedures
Continuous staff training
Administrative support
COMPETENCY REVIEW 2026 MOCK TEST
COMPLETE KEY INSIGHTS
◉ Structural indicators
Answer: are things that are "regulable," meaning they can be
monitored and are important for providing consistent care.
EX: Licensure
Lower ratios
Smaller group size
Caregiver qualifications
Professional development for staff
Health and safety regulations
Inclusive environment
◉ Process indicators
Answer: are what programs "do" to help promote development
through specific activities and intentional practices. Process
indicators are observable interactions.
EX: Curriculum and established routines
, Language and reasoning activities
Sensitive, responsive interactions
Collaboration and provisions for parents and families
Parent, teacher, and child interactions
Child-sized furnishings
Well defined and equipped space that meets the needs of all children
◉ Studies suggest quality experiences early in life lead to better
outcomes for children. These experiences lead to:
Answer: Lower delinquency rates
Increased graduation rates
Adults who earn higher salaries
Increased home ownership
Better cognitive and language skills
Adults who spend less time participating in social programs or on
welfare
◉ Quality Preschool
Answer: Developmentally appropriate curriculum
Developmentally appropriate assessment procedures
Continuous staff training
Administrative support
