Research has shown that young children learn best through active hands-on experiences. They develop independence, initiative, problem-solving and decision-making skills by interacting with other children. The four areas of development – physical, social, emotional and cognitive are closely related and one area influences and is influenced by development in the other areas. Development occurs in a relatively orderly sequence with later abilities, skills and knowledge building on those already acquired. It proceeds at varying rates from child to child as well as unevenly within the different areas of developmental stages. CDC has developed a Kindergarten Prep curriculum based on guidelines from the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Texas Essential Skills for Pre-K and Kindergarten. It uses hands-on, age appropriate, activities with small groups of children the same age.