Professional Development Tools to Improve the Quality of Infant and Toddler Care: A Review of the Literature

This report and accompanying materials summarize the state of the field on in-service professional development methods for early childhood caregivers. This comprehensive literature review draws on empirical studies, reviews, and meta-analyses conducted within the past 10 years and websites of leading organizations to identify the most promising methods and practices for improving caregiver interactions with young children. The report highlights methods that are most relevant for supporting caregivers serving infants and toddlers, caregivers with limited education, and caregivers working in home-based and family child care settings.

The appendix highlights key aspects of the 122 studies included in the review, such as the settings and professional development approaches and strategies examined within each study.