Kansas Early Learning Standards
The Kansas Early Learning Standards (KELS) is a document that provides information and guidance to early childhood providers and teachers, including early primary grade teachers, on the developmental continuum of learning for children from birth through kindergarten. The KELS provide information regarding what young children should know and be able to do as a result of engagement with caring knowledgeable adults, evidence-based curriculum, and developmentally appropriate activities. It is a dynamic resource that providers and teachers can use as they plan activities for, choose and implement curriculum, and engage in conversations with young children and their families around early learning.
In 2023 and 2024 a collaborative group of Kansas early childhood partners worked together to review and complete the fourth revision to the Kansas Early Learning Standards. The Kansas State Board of Education and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund approved the updated Kansas Early Learning Standards in 2024.
Visit kels.ksde.gov (external link) to view the updated Kansas Early Learning Standards and access supporting resources.
Kansas Family Engagement and Partnership Standards for Early Childhood
The Kansas Family Engagement and Partnership Standards for Early Childhood (PDF) provide guidance for families, practitioners, community members, and educators to examine current family engagement practices and plan future strategies to engage families in their children’s development and learning.
