In team teaching a group of teachers work together, plan, conduct and evaluate the learning activities for the same group of children. In classrooms using a team teaching approach parents and other observers would have a hard time recognizing the lead teacher in the room because all members of the teaching team are working together to seamlessly teach, and support children's learning.

A true team teaching approach moves beyond a once a week planning time between the teaching staff. Team teaching and planning should happen every day in early childhood classrooms. Adult planning and reflection time can occur during children's nap time, before children arrive, or after they leave. During this time the team can discuss their observations of children's developing abilities and interests, plan for who will facilitate lessons, prepare materials, and reflect on what went well during the day.

It is important to understand that in order to be successful each team member must feel that his/her input is valued. Each team is unique and needs to be catered to meet the needs of all team members. The following represents a 'checklist' of things to do to ensure the teaching team is set up for success.

• meet regularly
• plan children's learning activities
• set consistent expectations for team members
• rotate roles and responsibilities of team members
• use community resources in teaching
• read, research, understand and discuss developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood
• determine which activities can be best carried out in a large group setting, which in small group settings, which during play time and implement them
• decide on consistent expectations of students
• discuss behavior issues and brainstorm resolutions
• conduct team meetings with students
• share curriculum plans with supervisors, specialists or administration
• develop teaching resources as a team
• share successful teaching experiences with team members
• foster staff development among team members
• participate in a conference and other professional development training's as a team