This tool kit provides information and flyers that outline the various online resources provided for parents of young children, birth through age 5, by the Minnesota Department of Education and Working Family Resource Center. Resources include free monthly webinars, e-newsletters, Mom Enough shows, and i-Parent Insights.
With its strong theoretical research foundation, this text emphasizes the vital role of families and communities in young children's education--and the partnerships that early childhood educators must forge and foster to assure that children receive the highest quality care and education possible. The first section provides an understanding of families and contemporary issues that they face, covering such areas as family diversity, developmental issues, family strengths and functions, parenting and family stressors. The second section emphasizes skills and dispositions that teachers must develop in relation to building partnerships. Current research and best practices are incorporated throughout, including new information on inclusive environments, community schools, the importance of home language to families, children's learning at home, and other topics. Theory into Practice Suggestions (TIPS) and case studies provide practical insight that will help as you build your own partnerships in your community. The fifth edition is in press and will be published in late 2012 or early 2013.
The Social for Research in Child Development just published a policy brief on "Strengthening the Early Childhood Care and Education Workforce Would Benefit Young Children."
Building Blocks for a Healthy Future is an early childhood substance abuse prevention program developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Designed for parents and caregivers of children ages 3 to 6, Building Blocks will help you open up the lines of communication with young children-and make it easier to keep those lines of communication open as they grow older.
on assessing education programs - Thursday, November 10
November 08, 2011
As states move ahead in enhancing systems of care for young children, assessing and improving the quality of early care and education programs at all levels are becoming increasingly important.
Are your children tuning you out when you talk to them? Do you have to repeat yourself in order to be heard? A child's specific developmental stage influences her ability to understand and communicate. This webinar will focus on practical, accessible and developmentally appropriate parenting skills and strategies for communicating with young children ages two through six years. We will also talk briefly about signs indicating there may be an issue with receptive and expressive language, and where to go for help.
