Studies Conducted at University of Virginia on Early Childhood Research Recently Reported (Where Has All the Time Gone? Describing Time Use In Full- Vs. Half-day Pre-kindergarten).

A recent study conducted at the University of Virginia examined the allocation of instructional time in half-day versus full-day pre-kindergarten (preK) classrooms in a Colorado public school district that primarily serves Hispanic and low-income students. The study found significant variation in time allocation between the two types of classes, particularly in terms of instructional and noninstructional activities. Full-day classes included a daily nap, and a considerable portion of classroom time was dedicated to mixed-content activities. The research fills a gap in the body of research on time use in early childhood education and provides valuable information for stakeholders considering the expansion of preK programs to include a full-day option. [Extracted from the article]