All online resources are free. They have been written and designed by professionals in the field of early childhood education and have been validated through research over time.

California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations

The California Learning Foundations are designed to promote an understanding of young children’s development. The Foundations describe competencies—knowledge and skills— that most children can be expected to exhibit in a high-quality preschool program. The Foundations cover nine developmental domains, presenting a comprehensive view of what preschool children learn (learning standards) through child-initiated play and teacher-guided experiences and environments. The Foundations help teachers to understand children’s learning and focus on intentional teaching.

Introduction to the California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations(PDF)

• Approaches to Learning (PDF)
• Social and Emotional Development (PDF)
• Language and Literacy Development (PDF)
• Mathematics (PDF)
• Science (PDF)
• Physical Development (PDF)
• Health (PDF)
• History-Social Science (PDF)
• Visual and Performing Arts (PDF)
• PTKLF At a Glance (PDF)

There are also Foundations and Frameworks for Infants and Toddlers

California Preschool Curriculum Frameworks

The California Preschool Curriculum Frameworks are resources for planning for children’s learning. The framework presents ways of setting up environments, encouraging and building upon children’s self-initiated play, selecting appropriate materials, integrating learning experiences across domains, and planning and implementing teacher-guided learning activities. For each of the nine developmental domains, the Frameworks provide an in-depth look at ways to help children acquire knowledge and skills in each specific area.

Volume 1: Social & Emotional Development, Language & Literacy (with English Language Development), & Math

• Preschool Curriculum Framework Volume 1 

Volume 2: Visual and Performing Arts, Physical Development, and Health

• Preschool Curriculum Framework Volume 2 

Volume 3: History-Social Science and Science

• Preschool Curriculum Framework Volume 3 

There are also Foundations and Frameworks for Infants and Toddlers

Example of APA Reference page citation for the California Preschool Foundations and Frameworks (double spaced and indent 2nd line):

California Department of Education. (2024). California preschool/transitional kindergarten learning foundations: Social emotional development. Sacramento, CA

In-text citation example:

(California Department of Education. 2024).