Early Education Suspension and Expulsion: Newly Released AAP Policy Guidelines

•Identification of risk factors for behavioral problems in children is discussed.•Identification of risk factors for expulsion are discussed.•Legislation and policy changes are necessary to prevent expulsion from early education centers.•Plans of care should be distributed to family, caregivers, and educators.•Understanding children's needs, preferences, capabilities, and routines is necessary.•Mental health support for children, families, and educators is important to the success of children. Childcare and early educational programs provide children with the opportunities to learn and develop social skills prior to being introduced into the academic system. Suspension and expulsion from childcare and early education programs occur in high numbers and can cause life-long detrimental effects for children. Federal and state legislation has made advances over the years, but further development and implementation of universal policies are needed in order to reduce the number of young children being suspended and expelled. Pediatric nurse practitioners have a unique role in screening, identifying, and intervening when children are at risk or have experienced exclusionary discipline tracts.