A developmental perspective on educational opportunities.

This chapter provides a developmental perspective on "educational opportunities" from early childhood through adolescence. Educational opportunities have gained increasing attention from scholars in multiple disciplines. Yet a developmental perspective has been lacking. We offer an operational definition of educational opportunities that is grounded in developmental theory, and review milestones in children's growth that are key to the study of educational opportunities. In turn, we highlight when, why, and how key educational opportunities unfold inside and outside of school, including at home, in early education, through afterschool activities, and in neighborhoods. We also highlight theories on the accumulation of opportunities across developmental stages and settings, concluding with research recommendations and policy considerations.