According to the Alabama Early Learning Guidelines, "Alabama's Early Learning Guidelines are presented as a guide of building blocks that are important to support early care and to educate providers in preparing each child for future success in school and life. The guidelines are intended to be inclusive of all children. The guidelines do not contain a comprehensive list of every skill, knowledge, or development for ages birth through age five. They are only a guide."

These guidelines are meant to "promote continuity of high quality care and learning for children from birth through five years of age."