FELDS are a framework of eight domains that outline age-appropriate milestones and skills for children from birth to age five. They help both teachers and parents understand a child’s development, track progress and support early learning to prepare children for kindergarten.
Why FELDS matter
- Give clear, research-based goals for young children.
- Help teachers plan lessons and activities.
- Encourage parents to help their child learn at home.
- Identify when a child might need extra help.
How parents can use FELDS at home
- Focus on the big ideas, not every detail.
- Turn everyday moments into learning – count stairs, talk about the weather and take turns.
- Play and talk with your child often. Play is how young children learn best.
Talk with your child’s teacher
- Ask how they use the standards.
- Request examples of your child’s classroom activities and how to do them at home.
- Find out how they check progress and how often you’ll hear about it.
What the standards look like
The standards describe what most children can do at different ages, not a strict checklist, since every child develops at their own pace. The standards help parents and caregivers choose activities that match each child’s developmental level. FELDS are a great tool to help children grow and start kindergarten prepared. As a parent, daily talking, playing, reading and encouragement are the most important parts of your child’s early development.